Canada Celebrates Kwanza 010919

VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 24 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9 2019

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM

CANADA CELEBRATES

KWANZAA

On January 1st, 2019, the Canadian Kwanzaa Association (CKA) celebrated Kwanzaa, the Pan-African holiday, at Nathan Philips Square in Toronto for the first time; making it the first Canadian proclamation for Kwanzaa week in Canada’s history. The Toronto 3D Sign lit up in red, black and green, representing the lighting of the seven candles during the seven-day ceremony held from December 26th to January 1st.

This year marks the 52nd Anniversary of Kwanzaa since it

SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

was first established as a holiday in 1966, by Dr. Maulana Karenda in Oakland, California. Kwanzaa is rooted in the African culture, and derived from a Swahili phrase meaning, “first fruits of the harvest.” The observance was meant to help the African diaspora in the Americas or (pan Africans) reconnect to their African Culture. The holiday is now celebrated by pan Africans around the world to commemorate family, community, and culture. “Celebrating Kwanzaa in Canada is a means of expressing

our emancipation and is a continuation of the efforts of our elders and ancestors who fought for our equality and inclusion in this country,” says Dewitt Lee III, Founder of the Canadian Kwanzaa Association. “As African Canadians, it is important to begin building our own cultural customs and traditions and Kwanzaa gives a foundation to begin that journey…” emphasized Lee. Continued On Page 7

BUY - SELL - INVEST

First & Second Mortgages Equity Loans from $5000 - $500,000 Debt Consolidation Home Refinance & Home Purchase Good or Less Than Good Credit

WITH CONFIDENCE Virtual Tours and High Quality HD Photos to Attract more Buyers Down payment Loans - Cash Back Mortgage Offers*

DAVE JOHNSON Real Estate Agent 647-867-7809

dave@searchrealty.ca | dave.searchrealty.co 50 Village Centre Pl Suite 100 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1V9

NATALYA TONEY

Mortgage Agent License #12275 Powered by

DLC BedrockFinancial Group Lic 12275

CALL OR TEXT 416-837-5460 natalya@lendmorefinancial.ca | www.lendmorefinancial.ca

PAGE 2

feature

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Kavita Suri Creating a Beautiful Lifestyle

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean News

Award-winning, Canadian celebrity makeup artist Kavita Suri, was born and raised in Toronto to Indian parents.

It was a strict and somewhat flexible upbringing once they got past the culture shock of the freedom desired by growing up in western culture, but Kavita says that she and her siblings are thankful that her parents raised them to appreciate their Indian heritage, and also allowed them to discover their own paths for themselves.

“Growing up, my parents instilled the values of faith and family, to make sure that we’re always taking care of each other, to communicate and work through any issues we might have, and also to be ourselves and be good people to others always,” Kavita shares.

Although her life has taken a more entrepreneurial route, Kavita had wanted to become a police officer.

However, after speaking with her career counsellor, they advised that if she

FAST APPROVALS ovveedd...... nnss eess aapppprroe ssoolu io ttio g g a a g g t t r r aagge lu moo g g t t r r o o M Moorree m m m izeedd miz ussttoom M Moorree ccu

S E G A G MORTHE GO!!

ON T

• MONEY CREDITED • BAD CREDIT? NO PROBLEM • NO FEES, LOW RATES • FREE APPRAISALS

• DEBT CONSOLIDATION • 1ST, 2ND, 3RD MORTGAGES • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES • HOME RENOVATIONS LOANS

RAJESH JOSHI Mortgage Agent

647-302-0723 mortagealliance.com/RajeshJoshi

*Terms and Conditions apply. Corp Office 200-2005 Sheppard Avenue E,Toronto,On, M2J 5B4 . Lic#10530

was interested in having a family when she got older, it would be a tough path to take.

Reflecting on the advice she was given now, Kavita is in her 30s and so deeply invested in her career that starting a family isn’t high on her current list of priorities.

“His advice made sense at the time, he told me that for a reason, but it also steered me towards my second choice for a career and that was makeup artistry and that really was where everything unfolded in the way that it needed to,” she explains.

When Kavita started dabbling in the world of makeup artistry, the industry was nowhere near what it is today. Since the era of video tutorials, almost anyone can go online and learn the whole step by the step application process.

“My friends would come over and ask me to do their makeup because they knew I had an interest in it,” Kavita shares.

“I was also a model for a South Asian agency and through that I became acquainted with a girl who mentioned to me about a cosmetics line she was creating.”

Through her acquaintance, Kavita had the opportunity to further develop her makeup application skills by helping out during photo shoots, and that brand developed into something that helped to pave her career in the cosmetics industry.

“The line, developed into what we know now as Toronto based brand Vasanti Cosmetics that caters to women of color, and we grew together, they were just starting out, and I had just started offering my makeup services,” Kavita says. “I would help them out on events, the wedding industry started to open up and it really flourished from there.”

In order to pursue her new chosen career path, Kavita dropped out of University, much to the dismay of her Indian parents. “I wanted it so bad, I wanted to do my own thing, I wanted to express myself, and I wanted to launch my own business.”

“My parents were against it, it was tough for them to understand what I wanted, but I didn’t let those negative voices at the time bring me down, I just kept going, and all these wonderful opportunities would come to me,” Kavita explains.

During that time Kavita recalls that she felt very alone, she wanted her family to support her, but felt they didn’t understand her ambitions. Her parents

eventually came around, once they saw the fruits of her labor and the success she had wrought for herself making what they thought was just a hobby into a successful business.

“Your parents want the best for you, they want you to have a stable job, a husband and kids, but everyone has their own journey and path. I just tell them I’m living my best life and I’m happy and that’s all that matters.”

It took many years for Kavita to reach that point, to finally win the support of her parents and with over 15 years of experience in the industry, Kavita is a gamechanger, developing a brand for bridal beauty while also running a medical spa, beauty academy and her own skincare line, InfuseDerm.

“I started my makeup services at the age of 19, by the time I was 25 I was working toward opening my own spa in Yorkville, and with God’s grace and a lot of hard work it’s doing well,” Kavita says.

“Being an entrepreneur is something that you sign up for and you make a hard commitment to. There were times when I considered throwing in the towel as it isn’t easy and these are the things that we don’t share with people because everything always has to look okay.”

“I’ve never looked at being a woman of color as a disadvantage, it was an advantage for me because I looked different and with having a unique look it automatically attracts people to ask ‘Who is this girl here in Toronto doing her thing?’ and I’m proud to be a representative for that.”

In addition to all that she has achieved, negativity is a big part of the entrepreneurial journey and most important is dealing with it once you reach a level of success where people will stop at nothing to bring you down. “When that happens I honor my feelings, I don’t retaliate that’s not who I am and it’s not my responsibility to teach them their lesson, and I delete myself from them. I let them go in whichever way I need, knowing that this no longer serves me and my higher purpose,” Kavita explains.

“Surround yourself with strong positive women that will help you through the loops, ask questions, find mentors within your industry, they can guide you to discover things you never even knew.”

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

local news

PAGE 3

Toronto Caribbean Carnival announces new general manager ALYSSA MAHADEO alyssa@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Summertime in Toronto is host to some of the biggest cultural festivals in the city celebrating Canadian diversity and the many people that make up our nation.

This year, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival will celebrate the 52nd anniversary of the festival, and on this year’s frontline, they welcome newly appointed General Manager Richard de Lima.

Richard de Lima was officially appointed as General Manager of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival at the beginning of last month and will be responsible for the over-

all management of the Festival Management Committee (FMC) and the production of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Canada’s celebration of freedom and diversity.

The new GM brings 30 years of experience in business management, tourism, and hospitality to the 52nd year of the Caribbean Carnival celebrations in Toronto.

In addition to a 30-year career in engineering and business management, including experience working for major tourism, hospitality and entertainment organizations in Canada, the Caribbean and other international locations, de Lima brings a passion for Carnival arts and culture, with his 43 years as a “mas maker”, masquerader and steelpan aficionado.

“We are grateful to be working with an executive that combines both the required operational skills along with a deep knowledge of and passion for Caribbean Carnival operations”, says Joe Halstead, FMC Chairman.

“We look forward to our 52nd year of the celebration under his guidance and leadership.”

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is

an exciting four-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, and revelry. It is the largest cultural event in Canada and the largest outdoor festival in North America. Taking place from July 7th to August 11th, 2019, and since this year marks the 52nd anniversary of the carnival in Toronto it will feature more floats, music, celebrities, and fun than ever before. The theme “Canada’s Celebration of Freedom and Diversity” will infuse every aspect of the festival, from the parade route to the shows and all performers including singers, pannists and calypsonians.

The city of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area will come alive with the pulsating rhythms and melodies of Calypso, Soca, Salsa, Zouk, Reggae, Chutney, Steel Pan and Brass Bands. Carnival events will showcase originality, culture, and history to millions of spectators attending in downtown Toronto or watching on television and online.

“I look forward to working with our key stakeholders in the Mas, Pan, and Calypso communities to forge truly collaborative relationships, where my objective is to evolve the

Toronto Caribbean Carnival to be the best carnival in the world,” says de Lima. “As Canada’s celebration of freedom and diversity, our objective is to engage and invite Canadians and visitors from coast to coast to participate and experience the “Festival of Joy” that happens every summer in Canada’s downtown.”

The Festival Management Committee (FMC) is the official producer of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Canada’s fourweek-long celebration of freedom and diversity. Established in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations, the event formerly known as “Caribana”, has evolved into North America’s largest event of its kind with over 1 million participants annually and showcases the very best of Canadian Caribbean arts and culture.

For more information, please visit www.torontocarnival.ca or connect with them on social media @gotocarnival.

Put it in your calendars and make sure to head down to the Lakeshore and join your fellow masqueraders to celebrate the 52nd anniversary of the festival this summer!

WHY CHANGE YOUR OIL WITH US? • Lowest Price Guarantee • Certified Honda Technicians • Car wash with every Oil Change

LIMITED TIME OFFER The Best Protection for your Honda.

2 FOR 1 OIL CHANGE

66.88

$

+HST

†

Book before Feb. 28 www.performancehonda.ca

† Environmental disposal fees additional *Valid until February 28, 2019. Mention or bring in this flyer when you call or come in. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion, or program. Limit of one offer per household. This card cannot be exchanged for cash, and change will not be given for any unused balance. We reserve the right to revise or cancel this program at any time.

HWY 410 + MAYFIELD RD

905.460.3760 30 Ace Drive, Brampton, ON L6R 3Y2

SCARBOROUGH:

NOW SERVING THE PICKERING, AJAX AND OSHAWA AREAS SEAFOOD COUNTER

GREEN’S CARIBBEAN GROCERY LARGEST SELECTION open 7 days OF QUALITY a weekGUYANA to serve SEAFOOD you IN THE GTA!

$5.99/LB PARROT FISH

$6.99/LB NETLEY GUYANA

$6.99/LB GUYANA CRAB

@GreensWIgroceries

$5.99/LB

$5.99/LB KING FISH STEAKS

RED SNAPPER

$6.99/LB

$6.99/LB YELLOW GILBAKA

PACKOO FISH

HEAD

$12.99/LB CONCH MEAT

$12.99/LB COCOBELLY

416-745-6399

FRESHLY CAUGHT FROM GUYANA

JUMPER SHRIMP - BLACK SHRIMP

GUYANA HASSA - MULLET - CRECKETA - CUFFUM SMOKED FISH + MORE

$5.99/LB BUTTER FISH HEAD-ON

$14.99/LB FISH EGGS

11 Westmore Drive Etobicoke ON, M9V 3Y6

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Submissions NOW OPEN for the CineFAM Feature Film Incubator!

ALYSSA MAHADEO alyssa@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Calling all Female Creators! The CaribbeanTales Media group is proud to present CineFAM a new program that allows women of color the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities within the film and television industry to gain the recognition that they deserve.

CineFAM is looking for up to six women of color first-time feature film directors and their teams to work closely with industry mentors. If selected, you will develop the creative, business and finance skills needed to master the complex and challenging world of feature film production.

At the end of the program, participants will own a comprehensive business plan that will enable them to pitch their projects for funding and two selected projects will have an opportunity to compete for Telefilm’s Talent-To-Watch Program.

In recent years, women are demanding to be seen and heard in the entertainment industry, their hard work and dedication to their film creations are works of art and need more promotion and exposure to the world on how they have brought their creative visions to life.

In order to be considered for the CineFAM Film Incubator, submission requirements are as follows:

Synopsis of the project, a maximum of 750 words, which includes the main story developments, and tells the basic story from beginning to end

The Director’s vision (up to three pages in length) A promotion and distribution plan (up to two pages in length) which identifies the project’s audience (age, sex, sensibility, culture, etc.). It must also identify how the team will find and access this audience and why will they connect with the project

Resumes of the creative team (producer, writer and director) which will indicate training, education, experience, accolades, outline past projects and history of team collaboration

A production schedule (from preproduction to digital release)

Feature film budget Up to one page detailing any other information that sets this project apart (e.g.: personal connection to the story material, successful crowdfunding campaign, confirmed cameo by a well-known actor, established fan base on social media) A completed screenplay. A link to previous work, if available.

In order to be eligible for the program, all recommended projects must be emerging talent, i.e. they must have previously produced, directed and/or written at least one short film, but cannot have previously held the same key position on a feature-length film.

Key members must be Canadian citizens, within the definition of the Citizenship Act, or permanent residents within the definition of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Projects must be fictional or documentary audiovisual projects produced in English, French or an Indigenous language that are either: feature-length films of 75 minutes or more; or any other type of narrative-based audiovisual content made in a format specifically designed for online audiences. These types of projects can be comprised of one or more segments which, in total, must be more than 10 minutes in length.

CaribbeanTales (CTMG) is a group of media companies that produces, markets, and exhibits Caribbean-themed films for regional and international distribution, including CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution, the first and largest full-service film distribution company in the English-speaking Caribbean’ and CaribbeanTales Inc a registered Charity in Canada. Activities include: The CaribbeanTales International Film Festival now in its 13th year that celebrates the talents of established and emerging filmmakers of Caribbean heritage who practice their art across the Caribbean Diaspora worldwide ; The renowned CaribbeanTales Incubator (CTII) a year-round development and production hub for Caribbean and Caribbean Diaspora Producers that aims to create strong, compelling and sustainable content for the global market; Caribbeantales-TV a VOD streaming service for Caribbean films; and CaribbeanTalesFlix, our production arm.

For more information on this project and details on how to apply please visit: caribbeantalesfestival.com/cinefam-women-filmmakers-of-color/ Deadline for submissions has been extended to MIDNIGHT on April 30th, 2019.

local news

PAGE 5

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

local news

Canadian Kwanzaa Association celebrates the first Kwanzaa week in Canada at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL shauna-kay@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- Kwanzaa recognizes seven principles or Nguzo Saba in Swahili. They are Unity (Umoja), Self-Determination (Kujichagulia), Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima), Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa), Purpose (Nia), Creativity (Kuumba), and Faith (Imani). Each day of the ceremony, one of the principles are introduced or reinforced and is represented by the lighting of one of the seven candles, placed on a Kinara or candleholder.

The seven candles are divided into patterns of; three red, one black and three green, respectively. As such, the 3D Toronto sign displayed the same color

patterns and glowed brightly in representation of a fully lit Kinara, which takes place in millions of households all over the world who are simultaneously celebrating Kwanzaa.

The Canadian Kwanzaa Association was established in 2018 to oversee the implementation of Kwanzaa in Canada. The Association accomplished two historical milestones; that is, Brampton’s mayor Patrick Brown placed a Kwanzaa message on the digital board at Brampton’s Rose Square, and the City of Toronto dedicated December 26th to January 1st as Kwanzaa week. “This year marked great strides for us,” maintained the founder.

The closing ceremony held between 5:00pm and 5:45pm at the Peace Garden at Nathan Phillips Square brought together leaders from the community including; Dr. Elizabeth (Dori) Tunstall, Dean, Faculty of Design at OCAD University, Norman Di Pasquale, Toronto Catholic School board Trustee, Peter Lopez of the Black

Voter Base, and Playwright and Performer, Amani. The leaders’ messages were full of commitment, encouragement, and support of the association’s accomplishments and future goals.

These community leaders and key stakeholders will join the association to develop and expand Kwanzaa in other regions of Canada.

The next steps for the Canadian Kwanzaa Association are to build on their accomplishments. “We expect this to be an annual tradition not just in Toronto and Brampton, but municipalities across Canada,” says Lee III. “Our plan is to add Kwanzaa to the school curriculum and build chapters across Canada that would be tasked with establishing Kwanzaa Week in their community,” maintains Lee III. Consequently, Kwanzaa Week proclamations will be celebrated all across Canada in some years to come. For now, the Canadian Kwanzaa Association is proud to celebrate 52 years, and did so luminously, both in Toronto and Brampton.

PAGE 7

THINKING OF ADVERTISING YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE?

A walk down memory lane; tribute to the Legends of Reggae SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Ragga, Dub, regardless of what you want to call it; Dancehall music is considered Jamaica’s most popular style of music that has its genesis during the political turbulence of the late 1970s.

Dancehall has changed the face of music, and is one of the most versatile genres out there; this has been seen with the many artists all over the world who have collaborated on tracks that feature Dancehall riddims, or have tried to replicate its uniqueness. It became Jamaica’s dominant music in the 1980s and 1990s and began to become very popular in the African diaspora.

The music took on a different tone when the deejay became central to this musical style. The seductive chant of the dancehall deejay – part talking, part-singing – came to prominence in the late 1970s but was first noticed in 1969, when U-Roy experimented with talking over a “riddim.” From here, its presence could not be ignored and this multimodal African style became evident in hip-hop music of North America.

Dancehall music has produced some of the most charismatic and energetic artists with different styles and sounds; humor and storytelling be-

come a key component of the sound’s history. Poetry historians like Louise Bennett Coverley, dancehall skankin, and talking from artists like King Stitch became arguably infused into the international music culture and has become part of Dancehall’s beautiful history. While Dancehall can be violent and sexual in tone, the humor of the storytelling continues the African spiritual and folk tradition of storytelling. From February 16th – 17th, Tribute to The Legends of Reggae – Into the Dancehall will be featuring live concerts and school presentations in two cities: Brampton at the Rose Theatre on February 16th, and in Montreal on February 17th.

So, what can you expect from the Tribute to The Legends of Reggae?

It will definitely be a walk down memory lane, which will include tributes to some of reggaes late and greats. It will honor former schoolteacher turned Dj, Lieutenant Stitchie who roared on to the scene in the ’80s with tracks like, “Young Girl Wear You Size,” and “Natty Dread.” To honor DJ’s, one of Toronto’s hottest DJ’s Joshia Lucas will spin between sets and will be accompanied

by Master T who will be hosting the tribute.

Some of the artists include Tiger, an artist small in stature, but who was known for his growling style. In 1989, he became one of the first artists to cross over into the US hip-hop scene when he did a collaboration with the Fat Boys on “T’ings Nah Go So.” His success continued in the 1990s when he was signed by Columbia Records.

Another esteemed singer that will be recognized is Pinchers, a veteran in the game for over 15 years. He began his career singing with the local sound systems in Kingston, Jamaica where he came to the attention of one of the top producers in Reggae, the legendary King Jammy. His most popular and most recognized hit, “Agony” which appeared on his landmark dancehall album, “Got To Be Me,” featured his unique singing style, and this elevated him to his sex symbol status.

A special tribute will be performed for the great Garnett Silk by our very own five-time Juno winner Exco Levi. Encouraged by family and friends, Garnett Silk first took the stage at the Soul Remembrance sound system at the tender age of 12, under the moniSince 2000 The Caribbean ker Little Bimbo. Throughout Silk’s caChildren Foundation has extended the life line to over 150 children reer, he performed collaborations with greats including Sugar Minott, Tony Rebel and Chevelle Franklin. The world

BY ADVERTISING was left with Silk’s rich legacy of songs, WITH THE TORONTO and his influence remains as strong now as when he was alive.

CARIBBEAN NEWSPAPER

In addition to the live shows, YOU CAN HELP IN AIDING Tribute to the Legends of Reggae Enter The Dancehall, is developing A CHILD IN NEED OF 75-minute panel presentations that MEDICAL CARE will be presented in schools and hosted by Canadian musicologist on the history and context of Dancehall in the African Diaspora. Tickets for Tribute To The Legends Of Reggae – Into The Dancehall start at $25 and are availableWH 201 from ROSETHEATRE.COM. For more in- AT A 7...

YEA formation, you can contact Jones & R! Jones directly at 905-452-1911.

G

$5.00 From Every Ad Per Edition Is Donated To

Canadian Charitable Number 86498 5726 RROOO1

TO

AD

VE

VO

RT

LU

IS

E:

64

7-7

22

-62

98

•

ON

ME

6

•

IS

LIN

E:

ER YT TO R

HIN

G

ON

E

TO C

YO

U

AR

20 be 17 ev etchis on ria ents ed e of ex , m that in ou thos TO re trem elan br r m e ye RO NT w trosp e lo chol ough em ar an oman ect, sses y an t fo orie s that O CA d pr ”. it RI rth s fo w an otes A ye was d md ou stat r re ill fo BBEA ts ar th mor on trage es ason reve N for at e um ; of s wom saw so “t enta for euphand r T en man he yel ga som oan he E an y m ar ins. e, O d a xit d m ov of In ev ne m New of O inor em the pr ents ajor Tr bam ities ents pr esid thro ev um a .A en omis entia ughoent thp Era Am ds. ed l el ut at eric Wha som ectio the push a ha t th e de n. ye st H d to e gree It w ar w arted tro illar da vers y C an entir of as an as th vario St tic e marte w ial linton ipat Unichan evene 20 us co ca ates ho ke m ns or 16 e w ted ge be use . Th on t th vi opho d byse en erva Don as fr caus it br is w ews. bic, ac tir tiv ald th Stat bo at th om e it ougheven co as Tr To xe cusae elec e R Trum e eleces ofth min um m no tio tio ep the at ni the ge igni t abt was tio uc ph ns ub p, g n un ght of ne ted ou hi the p whoh of obic of n ca lican the ra t ne st fore th 45 ex the an his mpa ca conseenNov l Am ange ededorical Tr e U th ig nd d . Wembe ericanr an ch no Prescelle world mis racist n w ide ump,nite ith r 8, pud di ange t be in cess a d St idend in ’s su ogyn , ho as a fa 20 blic sple bu 20 a di or O contraates, t of the rpris istic rew 16, as , 20 m m ba st ca w asur t the end, e, it ell witn ho on e Wasthe 4517, D elanma. A in come Pr Uni beto esse hing th onal chol nd mpa esid ted Pres d ton Pres d Jo y m so, 20rison ent iDC iden hn ood 17 to Don t of Trum an , st his al . d the p on arte pre- d Uni was Janud of ted sw ar f Con Stat orn y tin es in ue in dO n Pa ge 5

BER

PTEM

SU

EV

IB

22

SE DAY,

W

ED

NE

ED

BE

20TH

DNES

•

AN

.C

NE

IN

OM

UE

SD

ON

AY,

E

DE

ME VOLU

CE

NE

MB

ER

W

SP AP

ADVE

20

17

98

62 722-

E7R

E: 64

RTIS

TO

• WE

15

NG

27

TH

ISS 6 •

YTHI EVER

YOU

NEED

.COM

BEAN

ARIB

NTOC

2017

ER SPAP

NEW

RO

: TO

LINE

• ON

NE

IN O

IN HELPNDS HA

t the supporm the fro oing ong ing the receiv d at d by been rs. amaze e yea s day we com h helme has overw tion over thel to thi d when duals witate y ivi tun stil she founda munit“I am ompli ed ind less for com be acc e-mind se in can h lik t tho what er wit suppor eth to tog sion a pas

PAGE 8

local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

The City of Brampton has opened applications for citizen appointments to various committees in the 2018-2022 Term of Council SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL shauna-kay@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The City of Brampton has opened applications for residents to help make decisions in their city, by joining one of the various committees or appointments for the 2018-2022 term of council. These committees are as follows; the Citizen-based Advisory Committees, Adjudicative Committees, Administrative Tribunals, and related appointments. This is an opportunity for residents to volunteer their time, invaluable expertise, and actively participate in a meaningful way. The application forms are to be submitted at the Clerk’s Office by email, mail, or inperson no later than 4:30 pm on January 18th, 2019.

There are several committees available which mean individuals are bound to find one that suits their skills and preferences. Each of these

committees has a number of subcommittees. The Citizen-based Advisory Committees are made up of approximately eight different committees; Accessibility, Age-Friendly, Safety, Heritage, School Traffic Safety, Sports Hall of Fame, Cycling, and Environment. While the Adjudicative Committees and Administrative Committees are made up of five committees; the Committee of Adjustment, Brampton Appeal Tribunal, Compliance Audit Committee, Committee of Revision, and the Property Standards Committee. Furthermore, other appointments include; Audit, Election Compliance Audit, Administrative Monetary Penalty System Screening and Hearing, and Public Library Board. “Bramptonians who want to make an impact in our city should apply for a citizen appointment. Informed decision-making is only possible with resident advisors, that’s why citizen-based Advisory Committees, Adjudicative Committees, Administrative Tribunals, and related appointments are so crucial in Brampton. Together, we can make an impact,” says Patrick Brown, Mayor of the City of Brampton.

Moreover, for further motivation, Brampton citizens are recognized

s e l b u o D 5 y u B Free!

1 t e G

each year at the Annual Awards Ceremony. “A tradition in Brampton since 1974, the Brampton Citizens Awards are one of our city’s most important initiatives. These awards give us the opportunity to recognize the contributions of some of the outstanding individuals who help make Brampton a better place,” highlighted Brown. This year the ceremony will be held in May 2019. Residents who have significant achievement in the calendar year 2018 in the categories; Sports, Arts, Longterm service, Inspirational, Emergency, Volunteer and Senior of the year, will be honored.

This year is the time to get involved in the City of Brampton to make your mark and legacy. In order to get appointed, first, the appointment procedures require that the individual must be a resident of the City

of Brampton, second, the citizen must fill out an application form, third, the list of names of all individuals will be provided to the Citizen Appointments Committee who will then conduct the interviews. Citizens will get to demonstrate their skills and commitment to making a meaningful impact on their city. Within a years’ time, you could be attending the Awards Ceremony in your honor!

For further information about the citizen appointments or citizen awards, please visit the City’s website: http://www.brampton.ca.

Residents who are interested in applying for the citizen appointments should contact the City Clerk’s Office, which is located at Brampton City Hall located at 2 Wellington Street West, Brampton, Ontario, by phone: 905-874-2101 or email: cityclerksoffice@brampton.ca.

All Day Lunch Special Roti or Rice + Doubles + Pop Chicken or Vegetarian Special Roti or Rice Tuesday Special Roti or Rice Bone-in Chicken, Boneless Chicken, Shrimp, Bone-in Goat, Vegetarian

86 5

99 65 99

S E L B U O D & I T O R DEBE’S

2881 Jane Street Toronto, ON M3N 2J5 Tel: (416) 839-9874 HELP WANTED

Jane St.

Finch Ave. W

Yorkwoods Gt.

Sheppard Ave. W.

OVER

Including Curry Chicken, Stew Chicken, Rice, Dhal, Dhalpurie, Sada Roti, Paratha, Fry Bake, Channa and Aloo, Bhaji, Curry Mango, Baigan Choka,Fried Baigan, Tomato Choka, Tomatoand Saltfish, Fried Bodi, Fried Orcho,Pumpkin, Fry Aloo, Curry Seim,Saltfish, Smoked Herring, Fried Rice, Fried Chicken & Much More!

PEPPER ROTI AVAILABLE BY ORDER TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

RICE OR ROTI

BONE CHICKEN, CHANNA & ALOO, BONE GOAT THURSDAY

RICE OR ROTI + POP BONE CHICKEN, CHANNA & ALOO, BONE GOAT

4 49 6 49

BRAMPTON LOCATION 263 Queen Street East Unit #2, Monday - Friday 10:00am to 8:00pm Brampton, Ontario, Canada Saturday 9:30am to 8:00pm Telephone:905 487 0888 Sunday 9:30am to 6:00pm

14

49

20

ITEMS

BIG WEEKEND BUFFET BREAKFAST! (Brampton Location Only)

TO CHOOSE FROM!

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

RICE OR ROTI

BONELESS CHICKEN, BONELESS GOAT, DUCK OR SHRIMP

THURSDAY

RICE OR ROTI + POP

BONELESS CHICKEN, BONELESS GOAT, DUCK OR SHRIMP

5 49 7 49

MISSISSAUGA LOCATION 3105 Winston Churchill Blvd #3, Monday - Saturday 10:00am - 8:00pm Mississauga, ON L5L 1P5 Sunday - Closed Telephone: 905 997 8119

SOME DISHES AND SPECIALS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT OUR MISSISSAUGA LOCATION. PRICE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE CHECK US OUT ONLINE www.Radicas.com

At Radica’s you’ll come hungry and leave happy!

ORDER ONLINE AT JUSTEAT.CA

PAGE 10

island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Cops capture wash bay robber

GUYANA -- Cops have arrested one of two suspects who robbed a wash bay operator of his jewellery and a sum of cash at gunpoint at Lot 1 Conciliation Drive, Georgetown on Sunday.

Police in a statement said the motorcycle used in the commission of the crime has been impounded.

The suspect, who allegedly discharged several rounds at the victim’s motor car which struck the windshield, after he

pursued them, was found in possession of an unlicensed pistol with a spent ammunition.

Efforts are currently being made to apprehend the other victim who fled the scene.

The detained suspect, who resides at Golden Grove, EBD and goes by the alias “Sharky”, is also wanted for questioning in connection with several offences, including murder.

- Guyana Chronicle

‘We got to be disciplined’ GUYANA -- Last Friday the Ministry of Business released an advertisement on their Facebook page promoting the proposed “Code of Conduct” for minibus operators, which seeks to address how they treat and deal with commuters on several issues.

Some drivers on the bus parks around the Stabroek Market area said, that the “Code of Conduct” will be a welcomed initiative to help rein in errant drivers and add standard to the public transportation system.

“It’s a good idea, with these minibuses we need some sort of discipline. I don’t see a problem with it just that we have to get discipline,” shared Edward Hooper, a Route 44 (Georgetown to Mahaica) driver.

The “Code of Conduct” was an initiative proposed by the United Minibus Union (UMU) and the Ministry of Business, to address consumer concerns with minibuses after the Ministry granted an across the board fare raise for minibuses last August.

The “Code of Conduct” is expected to address several concerns about minbuses including loud music, overloading, how passengers are handled, the way minibus operators are attired and colour coding of minibuses for the varying routes.

President of the UMU, Eon Andrews, is calling for training of minibus operators to be made mandatory.

Hooper, who has been a driver for the past 15 years, learnt about the “Code of Conduct” after seeing the issue being talked about on Facebook over the weekend.

One Route 47 (West/East) drive was not at all pleased that he was never informed of the coming policy. The driver, however, noted that he was not a part of the UMU and has no intention of joining.

Donald, (only name given) is a bus conductor on the 47 route, who also heard about the “Code of Conduct” and believes it a good thing that commuters concerns are being addressed.

“I heard that you’re supposed to treat the passengers nicely and speak to them politely and so on, and [I] also heard that passengers could lodge complaints and so on. Passengers have a right to be treated fairly, and properly and mannerly,” he said.

Two major issues which are always a sore point for commuters are the loud music in the buses and the overloading of the buses, many of which are only supposed to carry a maximum 15 persons, but in at least one case carried over 40 persons.

In June, a Route 42 minibus driver, Leon Jaggernaught, and his conductor Joshua Khan were charged after a video surfaced on Facebook showing that over 40 school

children were crammed into the vehicle.

The overloading of a minibus is a serious issue as the vehicle’s insurance is voided if an accident occurs while overloaded. Several commuters are also calling for the law against the playing of music in minibuses to be properly enforced.

“The police have to their job,” said Trevor Bailey, a driver on the 48 route.

“The drivers and the conductors [are] going to overload their bus to make their money you know how the hustle is. Get yuh extra money so you could done wuk early, drivers would do that. If the police [are] there it would avoid them from doing it, but the police have to do their work. You know it have police owning buses out here, so they won’t pull in their own bus and obstruct them from making their target, so that’s a thing, and they have friends too.”

After working as a conductor for a few years, since 2004, Bailey started working as a driver for the past nine months when he re-migrated to Guyana. He is not too pleased with how drivers and conductors carry themselves, and is happy that the “Code of Conduct addresses how the minibus operators should be dressed.

“The dress code could be in effect, I don’t have a problem with that because some of them drivers real untidy,” he noted.

Like Donald, he thinks commuters need to be treated with more respect. “Is they bringing the money, they paying you, you should listen,” he says.

On the issue of music, Hooper thinks drivers need to be more considerate of the passengers. “I am against the music, you have different class of people travelling in the buses,” he said.

The playing of any music on public transportation, including minibus and hire cars, has been against the law since 2008, with the passage of a Bill which inserted Section 174B in the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act.

At the Route 44, Mahaica bus park, Asser Ali complained bitterly about the tout system, and noted his enthusiasm to see it gone. He’s also concerned about the amount of parking available for buses given the line system in place.

“They gah get rid of the touts them, that’s all I want. The touts them causing a lot of problems. That’s it. And they gah make parking space for the bus, is a lot of bus,” Ali said.

He thinks the colour coding of separate colours for the differing route buses is a good idea.

- Guyana Chronicle

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

island news

1.3 million Jamaicans have jobs, says finance minister JAMAICA -- An estimated 1.3 million Jamaicans reported to jobs, in various industries across the island, as of Monday.

The announcement was made by Dr Nigel Clarke, minister of finance and the public service, in his remarks at the Guardian Life Limited’s “Staff Blast Off” held last Friday at the Jamaica Conference Centre in downtown Kingston.

Minister Clarke said that in spite of the negative perception individuals might have about the nation’s economy, the island is currently in a good place, with record-high employment levels, with more Jamaicans earning an income than ever before.

“We are in a good place as we stand right now. On Monday morning, more people will go to work than at any other time in Jamaica’s

history. Over 1.3 million Jamaicans will get up on Monday and have paid work to do,” he said.

Minister Clarke explained that after a long period of lack of investment on the island, a lot of production had returned to Jamaica and there were currently a number of companies being established and taking risks in Jamaica, like they haven’t in the last 20 years.

He stated that over the last five years, Jamaica had the highest returns of any stock market in the world, making it the best performing equity market over that period.

“There are over 200 countries in the world with maybe half or more of these countries with stock exchanges and, yet, Jamaica was the best performing equity market over the last five years of all countries in the world,” Minister Clarke said.

He noted that as a result, the renowned financial publication and research firm Bloomberg sent a team of reporters to Jamaica at the end of 2018 to investigate the source of this dynamism.

Minister Clarke also commended Guardian Life on their 20th anniversary and gave a charge to the company to keep on taking care of the health and financial needs of Jamaicans.

The Blast Off is an event hosted by Guardian Life Limited for the more than 600 Guardian Life representatives across the island, at the beginning of each year, to recap the previous year and set a positive theme for the year ahead.

- Jamaica Observer

Education ministry intervenes in Glenmuir Prep dispute JAMAICA -- The Ministry of Education has intervened in the dispute involving administrators at Glenmuir Preparatory School in Clarendon and parent Juliet Johnson-Clarke, after the woman was asked to withdraw her son from the institution.

Permanent secretary in the ministry, Dean-Roy Bernard, told the Jamaica Observer Monday that Glenmuir Prep is registered with the ministry’s Independent Schools Unit and that the division has been asked to do an investigation and to report to him on its findings to substantiate the complaint, after which corrective measures will follow.

“I know that at the level of the region, a report has been requested as well. So that will be swift to my hand. There’s also interaction with the parent of the child as well, and the parent is aware of what we are doing on the matter.

Johnson-Clarke, in Monday’s Observer front-page story, said that her seven-year-old son was being bullied by another student at the ministry’s region six institution.

Several complaints were made, she said, and several meetings held to address the

matter.

In a letter addressed to her from the school, she was told to withdraw her son in the interest and preservation of the school’s name, as well as to safeguard him from undue stress and anxiety.

“On November 9, [2018] a quorum of the board invited me to a meeting and the writer of that withdrawal letter, Father [Winston] Thomas, said that he was recommending that I withdraw my son since he had suffered so much trauma. I told him in no uncertain terms that withdrawal was not an option because my child has done nothing wrong — he has made friends, he’s comfortable and he’s doing well.

“He said to me that they had come up with a strategy to deal with the bully and asked me to stay my hand in terms of legal action until I hear from them in December, so that they could implement and assess the efficacy of the strategy or the intervention. So I have been waiting, and today (January 3) I got that letter.

I think it’s very disingenuous to be saying that because I threatened legal action when I was asked and agreed not to pursue any legal action

until I have got feedback. I have only got this letter which is tantamount to expulsion,” said Johnson-Clarke.

The mother said that her son has been kicked in the chest, slapped in the face and wounded by the other child.

“...I won’t say that the principal has failed to act, but I will say that if he has acted it has failed to change anything,” the woman said.

Johnson-Clarke learnt of the incidents after taking her son to see a counsellor. She noted that this was when he shared what was happening to him at school.

The school’s board chair Winsome Singh said that the parties involved met and that the matter was thought to have been settled.

“I’ve spoken with that person already — myself, the principal and Father Thomas. So I don’t know what else she expects of us. Either the child is not going to be staying in there or whatever, because she told us, ‘Yes it has got much better and whatever’,” said Singh.

- Jamaica Observer

Tourism security audit not a knee-jerk reaction to bad press, says Bartlett JAMAICA -- The security audit being conducted at hotels and attractions islandwide is not a reflex reaction to recent stories in the overseas media that paint Jamaica in a negative light, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has assured.

“I want it to be very clear that this is not a knee-jerk reaction to any kind of media or any intervention in the last few weeks, months or even years, because the whole business of tourism safety and security is fundamental to tourism itself,” Bartlett told a Tourism Safety and Security Forum held at Montego Bay Convention Centre Monday.

“It is the underpinning which enables a sense of well-being of visitors crossing borders.

It is a feeling that must pervade the persona of travellers before they even leave their destination and, therefore, it is a responsibility and a duty for recipient destinations to ensure that the wellbeing of visitors are secured,” Bartlett added.

Jamaica, he noted, “has done an excellent job over the years, and in comparative terms we are on top of the scale of safe and secure destinations across the world”.

He pointed out that the incidence of

infractions against tourists in Jamaica is .01 per cent. “But the objective is not to have .01 per cent, the objective is to have zero per cent. The objective is to ensure a pristine, clear, and clean destination. So whenever there are statements, either allegations or indeed factual, our job is to jump on it immediately and to deal with it and to clear the air — because what hurts tourism and a destination more than anything else is perception,” Bartlett stated.

“Perception sometimes leads to facts, but perception may have nothing to do with facts, and so one of the things that we have to do to make sure that we make that distinction is what is perceived to be a position,” he said.

National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang concurred that Jamaica has a history of minimal incidence of crime against tourists.

“In terms of the safety of our visitors, the country has an enviable record. For the many years that tourism has been in Jamaica we have had little of any personal threat to the visitor. In fact, one of the remarkable events in Jamaica is that even in communities that are considered very challenged you have visitors walking through

on a regular basis and staying there. It may in fact reflect some symbiosis between visitors and the regular communities,” the security minister said.

However, he was quick to point out that Jamaicans “are sensitive to the fact that there is a wider need to show the entire community and the wider society, and internationally and locally, the capacity of our security forces to ensure that citizens in Jamaica can move around safely and securely”.

The audit, being led by the Tourism Product Development Company and guided by international security expert Dr Peter Tarlow, is part of efforts to ramp up the island’s destination assurance programme.

Dr Tarlow, who spoke at the forum, said that in tourism “it’s not necessarily what happens, it’s how well you deal with it”.

“Tourism has a lag time and that means when something goes wrong, no matter how good you are it doesn’t get changed instantly, and therefore a negative story becomes an expensive story. It only takes one or two stories to create that.”

- Jamaica Observer

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Doctors order CoP to rest TRINIDAD -- Six months af­ter Gary Grif­fith was ap­point­ed Po­lice Com­mis­sion­er doc­tors have or­dered him to get some rest.

On Sun­day, Grif­fith checked him­self in­to the St Clair Med­ical Cen­tre in Port-ofSpain af­ter feel­ing un­well.

Grif­fith’s wife, Nicole Dy­er-Grif­fith, in a tele­phone in­ter­view on Mon­day, con­firmed that he is now at the Com­mis­sion­er’s of­fi­cial res­i­dence in St James re­cu­per­at­ing.

“He is much bet­ter to­day. Monday (Sun­day) we took him in­to St Clair. He was ex­pe­ri­enc­ing some pret­ty se­vere ab­dom­i­nal cramps so he spent most of the day there, he

had to be re­hy­drat­ed. He was very de­hy­drat­ ed.

“He had some IV ther­ap­ y and he had some rou­tine tests un­der­tak­en. Af­ter a few hours, they said it was okay for him to go home and come,” ex­plained Dy­er-Grif­fith.

She said her hus­band was still on the job op­er­at­ing from his make-shift of­fice at home tak­ing calls and di­rect­ing his charges.

Com­mis­sion­er Grif­fith was ap­point­ed on Au­gust 17, last year and has been lead­ing his of­fi­cers on sev­er­al crime-fight­ing ini­tia­tives in­clud­ing drug busts, re­cov­er­ing kid­nap vic­tims and road­blocks.

Asked whether he had been work­ ing too hard, his wife replied, “Amongst oth­er things, but you know that is not go­ing to change any time soon. That is just writ­ten in­to his DNA and that is the on­ly way we both know.”

Dy­er-Grif­fith said it was a mat­ter of putting things in place and en­sur­ing the ba­sics are fol­lowed up and “you eat on time and get some rest at some point in time but as I said his dri­ve and push is not go­ing to change.”

Dy­er-Grif­fith said she stayed at home to en­sure her hus­band com­plied with doc­tor’s or­ders.

- Trinidad Guardian

Pigeons mar smooth school opening TRINIDAD -- On the first day of the new school term, five of 12 teach­ers at Bel­mont Gov­ern­ ment Pri­ma­ry School walked out of class­es over con­cerns about a pos­si­ble health haz­ard from a pi­geon in­fes­ta­tion.

In ad­di­tion, re­pairs to sev­er­al schools which were ear­marked for work dur­ing the Christ­mas va­ca­tion were not com­plet­ed.

That was the sit­u­a­tion on Mon­day when thou­sands of stu­dents turned out for class­es, al­though Ed­u­ca­tion Min­is­ter An­tho­ny Gar­cia had giv­en an as­sur­ance dur­ing an in­ ter­view on CNC3’s The Morn­ing Brew that all schools were in a state of readi­ness.

Pres­i­dent of the T&T Uni­fied Teach­ ers’ As­so­ci­a­tion (TTUTA) Lyns­ley Doo­d­hai said while all schools opened, the union had re­ceived re­ports of teach­ers walk­ing out at Bel­mont Gov­ern­ment Pri­ma­ry due to a pi­geon in­fes­ta­tion—a prob­lem that ex­ist­ed last term.

He said al­though the five teach­ers with­held their ser­vices, the school re­mained

op­er­a­tional. He promised to raise this is­sue with the min­istry.

On the is­sue of school re­pairs, Doo­ d­hai said TTUTA was told that work was not done on more than 100 schools, in­clud­ing Cipero RC Pri­ma­ry, Point Cumana Gov­ern­ment Pri­ma­ry and Bam­boo Gov­ern­ment Pri­ma­ry.

“In­for­ma­tion reach­ing us is that these schools will be fixed af­ter school hours and dur­ing the East­er va­ca­tion,” he said.

He said an­oth­er sore point is that sev­er­al as­sis­tant teach­ers at pri­ma­ry schools were not paid their De­cem­ber salaries.

Doo­d­hai said the union was tak­ing le­gal ac­tion to seek the in­ter­est of sec­ondary school teach­ers mark­ing School-Based As­ sess­ments.

Last year, the Chief Per­son­nel Of­fi­ cer (CPO), in a re­port to the min­istry, rec­om­ mend­ed dis­ci­pli­nary ac­tion against teach­ers who refuse to mark SBAs. The union main­tains that teach­ers should be paid for such tasks.

“I am hope­ful that our lawyers can com­plete the work they are do­ing right now with re­spect to a claim to be filed in the High Court on Fri­day on the SBA is­sue,” Doo­dh­ ai said.

Gar­cia said he ex­pects teach­ers to mark the SBAs.

“I don’t fore­see any hic­cups with the mark­ing of SBAs. If SBAs are not cor­rect­ed then those chil­dren will have a fail­ing mark. It will be done to the detri­ment of those stu­dents and all of us. We need to hold hands and not to find our­selves in this sit­u­a­tion,” he said.

The min­is­ter promised to work with TTUTA and the Na­tion­al Par­ents Teach­ers’ As­ so­ci­a­tion to in­crease at­ten­dance of stu­dents be­fore and af­ter Car­ni­val. He ap­pealed to par­ ents to send their chil­dren to school to pre­vent dis­rup­tions in their stud­ies.

- Trinidad Guardian

Moonilal refuses opening submission to Privileges Committee

TRINIDAD -- A closed door ses­sion of the Priv­i­leges Com­mit­tee meet­ing fell apart to­ day af­ter Oropouche East Mem­ber of Par­lia­ ment Dr Roodal Mooni­lal re­fused to give his open­ing sub­mis­sions.

Though the at­ten­dees of the pri­ vate ses­sion were bound by con­fi­den­tial­i­ty, Guardian Me­dia learned that Mooni­lal chal­ lenged the cur­rent com­po­si­tion of the Com­ mit­tee.

Mooni­lal was be­fore the Com­mit­tee to an­swer ques­tions on two mat­ters: his be­ hav­iour dur­ing a Par­lia­men­tary de­bate last Oc­to­ber when he al­leged­ly told Laven­tille West MP Fitzger­ald Hinds “that’s why Snake

have lead for you” and his ref­er­ence to a fi­ nan­cial tri­an­gle in­volv­ing Prime Min­is­ter Dr Kei­th Row­ley, AV Drilling and a Mi­a­mi-based com­pa­ny.

Mooni­lal said then that Row­ley ben­ e­fit­ed from a fi­nan­cial trans­ac­tion con­nect­ed to A&V Drilling in Flori­da, which the PM re­fut­ ed.

Last Oc­to­ber Hinds and Leader of Gov­ern­ment Busi­ness and Arou­ca-Mal­oney MP Camille Robin­son-Reg­is raised the is­sue of priv­i­lege and Speak­er of the House Brigid An­nisette-George agreed to the mo­tion.

Mooni­ lal though has since been chal­leng­ing the com­po­si­tion of the com­mit­

tee since both Hinds and Robin­son-Reg­is are on the tri­bunal.

Af­ter his le­gal let­ter to the Com­mit­ tee in No­vem­ber, both Hinds and Robin­sonReg­is re­cused them­selves.

With re­gards to the Row­ley mat­ter, in No­vem­ber Mooni­lal’s at­tor­neys wrote to the Par­lia­men­tary sec­re­tary Jacqui Samp­ son-Meiguel, say­ing that it would be “ill-ad­ vised” for the six-mem­ber com­mit­tee to pro­ ceed with its in­quiry as Row­ley re­ferred the is­sue to the po­lice and it is now part of an in­ves­ti­ga­tion.

- Trinidad Guardian

Problems remain at Tobago schools

TRINIDAD -- To­ba­go House of As­sem­bly Chief Sec­re­tary and Sec­re­tary for Ed­u­ca­tion Kelvin Charles says all schools in To­ba­go re­ opened Monday.

How­ev­er, T&T Uni­fied Teach­ers’ As­so­ci­a­tion (TUT­TA) rep­re­sen­ta­tive for the To­ba­go Or­lan­do Kerr said the union is not sat­is­fied with con­di­tions at some schools and will stand firm un­til work­ing con­di­tions for teach­ers and stu­dents are im­proved.

“At the Sig­nal Hill Sec­ondary School, we are still await­ing the re­pairs at the lab and a Math­e­mat­ics teacher. At Spey­side An­gli­can Pri­ma­ry School we have the is­sue with the sew­er­age sys­tem, which needs to

be re­paired. When will these is­sues be re­ solved?” Kerr asked.

TTUTA rep­re­sen­ta­tive said he has sched­uled meet­ings with teach­ers at var­i­ous schools through­out the week to hear their con­cerns and will “re­main res­olute in en­sur­ ing that teach­ers are giv­en the best to per­ form their du­ties.”

On is­sues at the Scar­bor­ough RC School, Kerr said while work was done dur­ ing the va­ca­tion pe­ri­od to deal with a flood­ing prob­lem, it was “done in haste and there are sev­er­al oth­er is­sues ex­ist­ing at the school.”

The school, which was built at a cost of $85 mil­lion, was com­mis­sioned last

Au­gust.

In Sep­tem­ber, con­cerns were raised about flood­ing on the com­pound, slip­pery tiles and the ab­sence of awning to pre­vent rain from blow­ing in­to parts of the build­ing.

Charles said: “Some work was start­ed at the Scar­bor­ough RC School, it is not com­plete, but it should not im­pact the re­ open­ing of the school.”

The school’s act­ing prin­ci­pal Pa­tri­ cia Wafe said the awning work is on­go­ing.

“We had an is­sue with wa­ter com­ing in at the front that was re­solved,” she said.

- Trinidad Guardian

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! TEL: 905-457-2378

GEMS

55 Selby Rd. Unit 2A

(RUTHERFORD RD. & CLARENCE - BRAMPTON)

Wholesale Meat & Fish Shop

Monday: CLOSED | Tuesday:10:00am - 6:00pm | Wednesday: 10:00am - 6:00pm | Thursday: 10:00am - 7:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 8:00pm | Saturday: 10:00am - 6:00pm | Sunday: 10:00am - 4:00pm

“We would like to thank you for your continued support and I wish you a wonderful new year filled with abundance, joy, and treasured moments. May 2019 be your best year yet!” ~ Gem

SALE PRICE VALID FROM JANUARY 9TH - JANUARY 22ND Easy Cook Oxtail

Caribbean Dreams Browning

Banga Mary Fillet

5

49

1

/LB

29 /EA.

BOX 99

19

/BOX

NuPak Parboiled Rice 8kg

7

Xtra Black Pepper

2

King Fish

99 /EA.

Mr. Goudas Vinegar 4L

BOX 99

34

/BOX

/EA.

Mr. Goudas Red Peas 4lbs

3

Spur Tree Seasoning Packets

0

3 FOR

49 /EA.

1

79

Ting

Parrot Fish

1

99

BOX 99

41

/BOX

Snapper Fish

99 /EA.

99 /EA.

BOX 99

39

/BOX

SMOKED TURKEY AND HAM NOW AVAILABLE JAMAICAN BLACK CAKE & HOMEMADE SORREL ALSO AVAILABLE

PAGE 14

island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Mother begs for police protection TRINIDAD -- Eight days af­ter her son was shot dead near his San­gre Grande home, Ann Marie Stephen says she is now be­ing tar­get­ed by gang mem­bers in her com­mu­ni­ty and is ap­peal­ing to Po­lice Com­mis­sion­er Gary Grif­fith for im­me­di­ate pro­tec­tion.

Stephen, 53, a moth­er of eight, said she had re­port­ed the in­ci­dent to the Tu­na­puna Po­lice Sta­tion. She came to Guardian Me­dia on Mon­day seek­ing help.

The threat came days af­ter her 23-yearold son Kei­th Clement, a co­conut ven­dor, was killed on De­cem­ber 27.

Stephen said Kei­ th was her third child to have died un­der trag­ic cir­cum­stances.

Her daugh­ter, Mar­i­on Clarke, 16, died in an ac­ ci­dent in To­ba­go a few years ago and in 2017, her 34-year-old son Bren­don Stephen was shot dead.

She de­ nied Clement was in­ volved in any il­le­gal ac­tiv­i­ty al­though she ad­mit­ted he smoked mar­i­jua­na and was fre­quent­ly on the block.

“I am ap­peal­ing to Grif­fith to in­ves­ti­gate Kei­th’s death, please. I need jus­tice for my son’s mur­der. I am not go­ing to rest un­til I see his killers

get pun­ished. I want Grif­fith to clean up Damarie Hill and put away these gang mem­bers who have the place un­safe,” she said.

Stephen said her son was a vic­tim of an on­go­ing war in the com­mu­ni­ty.

“It’s war­fare from long time. My big son, Bren­don, and them used to be in war,” she said.

Stephen said she was threat­ened last Fri­day as she walked from her home by a man who “start­ed shout­ing that he would kill me.”

She re­called: “I start­ed to run but fell and in­jured my left hip. As he got clos­er, I be­gan scream­ing and peo­ple came out, caus­ing him to

go in an­oth­er di­rec­tion. That is how I got away.

Stephen said.

Asked if she is liv­ing in fear, Stephen: “I not fear­ful of dy­ing be­cause I have no co­coa in the sun. I have noth­ing to hide. They done killed two of my sons and is not strangers who do it.

Why these fel­las killing peo­ple and they out­side walk­ing free? Some­thing is not right.”

No one has been ar­rest­ed for Clement’s mur­der.

- Trinidad Guardian

Another ‘Trini’ captured fighting for ISIS TRINIDAD -- One of the men who ap­peared in an ISIS video speak­ing about life in Trinidad and To­ba­go has been cap­tured fight­ing with ISIS in Syr­ia.

Sev­er­al in­ter­na­tion­al news agen­cies, in­clud­ing the BBC and New York Times named him as 35-year-old Zaid Abed al-Hamid.

The U.S-backed Syr­i­an De­mo­c­ra­t­ic Forces con­firmed the cap­ture on Sun­day.

Al-Hamid is be­lieved to have had dual cit­i­zen­ship, as he spent sev­er­al years liv­ing in

the Unit­ed States.

The New York Times re­ports that his name ap­pears in a data­base of 130 Trinida­di­ans who joined the Is­lam­ic State that is main­tained

by Si­mon Cot­tee, a se­nior lec­tur­er in crim­i­nol­ o­gy at the Uni­ver­si­ty of Kent who tracks the group.

Cot­tee is work­ing on a book about ISIS fight­ers from the Caribbean na­tion.

Hamid had been iden­ti­fied as an ex­ trem­ist since at least 2011, the re­port said.

Ac­cord­ing to Cot­tee’s data­base, Hamid joined the ter­ror­ist group on April 6, 2014, along with his wife and his three chil­dren.

He ap­peared in an ISIS video, sit­ting by a stream, speak­ing about how his fam­i­ly could not prac­tice their faith in Trinidad.

The news­pa­per re­port­ed that a sim­i­ lar­ly spelled name — Zaid Ab­dul-Hamid — ap­ pears in a cache of ISIS reg­is­tra­tion forms in­di­ cat­ing that he pro­vid­ed a ref­er­ence for a re­cruit from Trinidad and To­ ba­ go when that re­ cruit

joined the group in 2014.

The form in­di­cates that Ab­dul-Hamid was in Raqqa, Syr­ia, at that time.

The oth­er per­son cap­tured has been iden­ti­fied as 34-year-old War­ren Christo­pher Clark, aka Abu Mo­ham­mad al-Ameri­ki, who for­ mer­ly taught in Texas.

- Trinidad Guardian

Kamla challenges PM to national debate TRINIDAD -- Af­ter de­scrib­ing Prime Min­is­ter Dr Kei­th Row­ley’s mes­sage to the na­tion as the plot from the book How to Lie with Sta­tis­tics, Op­po­si­ tion Leader Kam­la Per­sad-Bisses­sar chal­lenged her po­lit­i­cal neme­sis to a pub­lic de­bate.

It was at a me­dia con­fer­ence at the Cou­va South Con­stituen­cy Of­fice with her fel­ low Op­po­si­tion MPs that Per­sad-Bisses­sar threw down the gaunt­let, say­ing that it was dis­turb­ing that af­ter three years in gov­ern­ment, Row­ley was still blam­ing the UNC for the state of the econ­o­ my.

Fur­ther­more, she said Row­ley, dur­ing his ad­dress on Sun­day night, did not tell facts to the na­tion in what she de­scribed as a “po­lit­ic­ al com­e­dy cen­tral” and that each point of his Pow­ er­Point pre­sen­ta­tion could be dis­put­ed. She said she was ex­pect­ing part two of last night ad­dress

to be a con­tin­u­a­tion of the same.

“I call up­on the Prime Min­is­ter, if you name man, I am will­ing to take you on mano y mano on every one of those is­sues you raised...

One on one, I will en­gage you. Be a man, come for­ward and I will take you on, on all of those lies, every dis­tor­tion. I will show you what we did, how we de­liv­ered in every sphere of life,” Per­sadBisses­sar.

In analysing his mes­sage, she said that Row­ley of­fered no so­lu­tion to the de­pressed econ­ o­my and no hope for cit­i­zens cow­er­ing un­der the reign of crim­i­nals. She said her gov­ern­ment was blamed for leav­ing the trea­sury emp­ty, but checks would show that af­ter the Peo­ple’s Part­ner­ship (PP) was oust­ed from of­fice in 2015, there was $13 bil­lion of for­eign ex­change re­serves, which fell to $10.6 bil­lion un­der the gov­ern­ment.

She said that Row­ley told the na­tion that the PP wast­ed $29 bil­lion in five years, but the truth was that they proud­ly spent $290 bil­lion on schools, po­lice sta­tions, hos­pi­tals, lap­tops for stu­dents, light­ing ini­tia­tives and oth­er in­fra­struc­ tur­al projects that ben­e­fit­ed cit­i­zens.

In con­trast, she said the Peo­ple’s Na­ tion­ al Move­ment gov­ern­ ment has spent $190 bil­lion in three years on paint­ings, So­ca on the Sea, new cars, golf cours­es and a new fer­ry that is con­tin­u­ous­ly out of ser­vice due to rough seas.

Since tak­ing of­fice, she said the gov­ern­ment has been re­gur­gi­tat­ing projects it promised, such as the dry-dock­ing fa­cil­i­ty in La Brea, the San­dals Re­sort for To­ba­go while work on the high­way con­ struc­tions to To­co and Point Fortin have stalled.

She added that when the PP left the gov­ern­ment in 2015, pub­lic sec­tor debt was 45 per cent of

T&T’s Gross Do­mes­tic Prod­uct but has now risen to 61 per cent while For­eign Di­rect In­vest­ment has de­clined.

“I think the most ap­pro­pri­ate re­sponse to Dr Row­ley is to re­peat his own words and these words he said on April 10, 2013. It is this, ‘Any time a gov­ern­ment re­sorts to blam­ing the op­po­si­ tion for its fail­ure to de­liv­er on their man­date and their re­spon­si­bil­it­ies to the peo­ple, it is a clear sign that they have out­lived their use­ful­ness.”

Per­sad-Bisses­sar al­so de­scribed a me­ dia re­lease, an­nounc­ing the names of UNC can­ di­dates for the next gen­er­al elec­tions as false and mis­chie­vous. She said that the par­ty’s cau­cus has not yet dis­cussed the se­lec­tion of can­di­dates.

She said there will be new faces to the teams that will con­test the 2020 gen­er­al elec­tions.

- Trinidad Guardian

Prime Min­is­ter Dr Kei­th Row­ley: We have done reasonably well TRINIDAD -- T&T’s debt-to-GDP ra­tio is de­ creas­ing, en­er­gy ex­ports are in­creas­ing and nat­ur­al gas pro­duc­tion is on the up­swing, Prime Min­is­ter Dr Kei­th Row­ley an­nounced in the sec­ ond part of his ad­dress to the na­tion broad­cast on Mon­day night.

“That is called get­ting the job done,” he said. Con­tin­u­ing with a pre­sen­ta­tion loaded with da­ta, Row­ley com­pared the sit­u­a­tion in T&T to oth­er oil-rich na­tions when com­mod­i­ty prices col­lapsed. He said while coun­tries like Sau­di Ara­bia, Qatar and Nige­ria in­creased tax­es and cut back on so­cial ser­vices, that had not been the case in T&T.

“We have not col­lapsed and hell is not our for­tune. We have done rea­son­ably well,” he said, not­ing that VAT had been re­duced, the tax-free al­lowance to in­di­vid­u­als had been in­ creased, along with grants and so­cial ser­vices.

On the is­sue of Petrotrin, Row­ley said it was one of the few oil com­pa­nies in the world owned by the peo­ple and up to the time of Gov­ ern­ment’s in­ter­ven­tion was sad­dled with $13 bil­ lion in debt.

He said 100,000 bar­rels of oil a day was be­ing im­port­ed to keep the Pointe-a-Pierre re­fin­ery go­ing and was be­ing paid for in a debt arrange­ment in which the com­pa­ny in­curred dai­ly loss­es of be­tween US$4 and US$7 per bar­rel.

He said the fore­cast was for $2 bil­lion in loss­es every year go­ing for­ward. Be­tween 2014 and 2018 Petrotrin suf­fered $8.8 bil­lion in loss­es.

“An oil com­pa­ny is not to cost you mon­ey, it is to make mon­ey for you,” he said.

Row­ ley said in the re­ struc­ tured arrange­ment, Her­itage Pe­tro­le­um Com­pa­ny will

ser­vice the debt owed by Petrotrin, leav­ing more mon­ey for the Min­is­ter of Fi­nance to do oth­er things.

Ac­cord­ing to the Prime Min­is­ter, while in 2016/17 his ad­min­is­tra­tion set about to re­ duce the fu­el sub­sidy, it is still cost­ing the coun­ try al­most $1 bil­lion.

Row­ley, who de­clared that T&T will not go the IMF, said Gov­ern­ment’s strat­e­gy is to be­come more ef­fi­cient, by cut­ting out cor­rup­tion and waste.

He said sav­ings of $1.26 bil­lion had been achieved by re-ten­der­ing on some ma­ jor projects, in­clud­ing the Cu­mu­to high­way which was re­duced from $550 mil­lion through open trans­par­ent ten­der to $400 mil­lion and the Curepe fly­over which went from $412 mil­lion down to $221 mil­lion.

Row­ley said go­ing for­ward in ad­di­tion

to up­stream en­er­gy sec­tor projects, Gov­ern­ ment has em­barked on a pro­gramme for di­ ver­si­fi­ca­tion of the econ­o­my. He iden­ti­fied the Phoenix Park In­dus­tri­al Es­tate, the La Brea Dry Dock­ing Fa­cil­i­ty, Aripo Agri­cul­ture Pro­gramme and the agro pro­cess­ing plant be­ing de­vel­oped in Moru­ga as some of the projects that will dri­ve the di­ver­si­fi­ca­tion thrust.

He al­so iden­ti­fied trans­port projects and pro­grammes, in­clud­ing com­ple­tion of the Point Fortin High­way, Va­len­cia to To­co road ex­ pan­sion, To­co port and the high­way ex­ten­sion to Man­zanil­la.

He said in the plan to link Trinidad and To­ba­go through To­co, the in­ten­tion is for the Galleons Pas­sage to even­tu­al­ly op­er­ate on that sea route.

- Trinidad Guardian

WANTED IMMEDIATELY

CLEANING CREW LOOKING FOR RELIABLE & HARDWORKING INDIVIDUALS FOR RESIDENTIAL CLEANING FOR MISSISSAUGA, BRAMPTON & GEORGETOWN

This is a part-time position and training will be provided.

Candidate Requirements: • Individual must be able to start immediately • Must be bonded, reliable and trustworthy • Time flexibility a must • Experience is required • Must have access to a vehicle and be willing to travel • Must be able to work flexible hours (mornings and/or afternoons)

Twilight Quality CLEANING

twilightqualitycs@gmail.com Tel: 647-210-6926

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

feature

PAGE 17

A delicious taste that is all plant-based Once you understand the phrase health is wealth it kind of sums up the entire reason why you need to prioritize your health.

Inyoto’s Plant Based Milkshakes is a dairy-free drink company that stands for a natural way of life and reaching the full potential of your core within.

The unique Toronto beverage company adds major nutrients to your body while tasting delicious and mimicking the same texture as a milkshake. One of the key ingredients is sea moss. Sea moss is a type of red algae that can be found on the Atlantic coast. The nutrientdense sea vegetable contains 92 of the 102 minerals our bodies need. Some of the health benefits include improving metabolism, thyroid function, digestive regularity and boosting immunity.

Before starting up her business in December of 2017, Inyoto felt the need to make changes in her own life first. She went from a typical diet filled with a lot of animal products such as meat and dairy.

She then switched to a cleaner diet, centered around whole foods like fruits and veggies.

“I had to change the way I cooked, experiment a lot in the kitchen, try new foods and along the way I also discovered a lot of foods that exist in this world that the average person just doesn’t know anything about.”

Another natural ingredient used is their homemade walnut milk. Walnuts are a good source of omega 3’s and are

rich in antioxidants. They can aid in maintaining a healthy gut and support brain function as well as healthy aging. Inhouse, it only takes only five minutes to make three bottles of milk. As for sugar, all the sweetness in the milkshake comes from fruit. Inyoto says “you’re getting the real sugar that is meant for you from nature.” To avoid using preservatives the shakes are made daily during the week, each bottle taking about five minutes to make. Currently, the company works out of local kitchens in the neighborhood. Inyoto says, “We usually rent a kitchen and make the shakes within that facility.” During the weekdays, Inyoto focuses on promotion, handling pre-orders and making shakes. Saturdays and Sundays are for delivery. The inspiration behind the beverages was to provide a nutritious alternative to a delicious drink.

“Today, young people are dying or getting sick and a lot of that has to do with diet. The food that we consume is directly linked with how our health.”

The first people to try her shakes were her two sisters.

“They really enjoyed it, they had some really good feedback on it and so I decided that I would make this available to the public to purchase seeing that a lot of people aren’t very health conscious and some people who are, we don’t have a lot of healthy options in stores, so that was in mind when making this product.”

However, she would like more people to have the opportunity to enjoy

her product despite their dietary restrictions.

“We come across a lot of people who are actually allergic to nuts and bananas so that sets some limitations.”

Walnuts and bananas are used in both their strawberry banana and mango pineapple shakes. Currently, Inyoto’s Plant Based Milkshakes are trying to find ways they can make their beverage without their main ingredients. Other than her milkshakes and organic maca root powder, Inyoto has other product ideas up her sleeve. She believes that children are important targets when it comes to wellness and health because their eating habits are instilled in them.

“I would want to come up with crackers, preferably raw crackers something that is not cooked at a very high degree so it will still keep its benefits and nutrients as much as possible.”

In addition to developing a healthy snack for both children and adults, the 26-year-old business owner is coming up with new flavors. Right now, the number one seller is mango banana pineapple. Inyoto believes her upcoming flavors might knock their top seller out of the park. She shares that “We are working on a chocolate flavor that should come out next year. I’m also looking into making something with papayas as well. Papaya is really good for people who have diabetes.” The company’s priority lies in the well-being of others not only with their product but in the community too.

“Two times a year we will go around the city and provide free shakes for the homeless. The money to do this actually comes from a percentage of the sales that we make.”

Not only do they provide fresh shakes but during the winter they also give out clothing items such as gloves and scarves to help the homeless stay warm during the cold months. Even after all her accomplishments, Inyoto still remains humble.

“I don’t think too much of it, I feel like it’s what I am supposed to be doing right now, so it doesn’t really feel like I have accomplished too much or accomplished too little, I feel like I’m at the right place at the right time.”

In the future, Inyoto would like to open up her own smoothie, shakes and juicing bar that will leave people instantly energized without the artificial flavors or chemicals.

“A space where people can come in and become a community and an environment just full of positive affirmation, full of beautiful visuals and art.”

If you would like to order one of these bomb tasting shakes be sure to make your pre-orders through the website at Inyotoshop.com.

Written by Ellen Rockson Toronto Caribbean Reporter

entertainment

PAGE 18

Farmer, Nadia, two forces to Be reckoned in 2019

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Last season, Nadia held her own, powerfully. She’s been a strong female voice for many years but this ABA year, she’s cleared the way for herself, LUKE advancing ahead of the pack, someaba@carib101.com thing that will undoubtedly seal the deal for her financially, for the entire ENT. PUBLICIST year ahead. Shal Marshall was that artiste who led the way in 2018. He Nadia Batson and Farmer Nappy are was everywhere and no matter where definitely gonna be in every big fete it was, his hit single, “Splinters” made in carnival 2019. If they’re not, well, crowds go wild. He capitalized on the something would be wrong. Beyond appreciation for the tune, taking to sothat, these two, with two of the most cial media with powerful presence and played, and certainly most request- even marketing the name by branding ed soca tracks heading into Carnival t- shirts, caps and other paraphernalia.

2019, will be on tour throughout the Shal had taken over.

Soca music’s been infiltrating year. Don’t say we didn’t predict it! the global music arena, though at a

Both Soca artistes penetrated lesser pace than other genres, for a a feting crowd on the weekend at SOS few years well.

It’s likely that the pace in Tobago, proving that their singles are carnival ready. Farmer’s “Hookin’ will continue and what we will eventuMeh’ and Batson’s, “So Long”, were im- ally see, is a whirlwind of international mediate hits upon release prior to the exposure for a genre that is authentiChristmas holiday and since the mu- cally Caribbean. We can’t wait!

- EBuzzTT sic releases, both artistes have been warmly embraced by soca lovers, the world over.

At 79, T&T’s Calypso Rose will ignite the Stage at the Coachella Music Festival in Cali ABA LUKE

aba@carib101.com

ENT. PUBLICIST

Tobago-born Calypso Rose is more than a diva. She’s a boss. In fact, the almost 79-year-old hit maker who was last year awarded the Grand Prize for World Music award at the Sacem Grand Prix in France, is set to make her debut at Coachella, in 2019.

The festival, which has seen the likes of Beyonce, Madonna and Kendrick Lamar hit the stage in previous years, is a major music and arts showcase and party that sees thousands flood the venue over a two weekend period. This year, between April 12th and April 21st, Childish Gambino, Janelle Monae, Diplo, Ariana Grande,

Meadowvale

Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Centres

Khalid, Solange, Kid Cudi, Pusha and Wiz Khalifa will be a part of the musical excitement. Added to that is none other that this amazing Calypso icon of Trinidad and Tobago, Calypso Rose.

Rose’s team took to Instagram to make the announcement, relaying the artiste’s excitement to be a part of the lineup. “I can’t wait to sing, dance and enjoy this time with all of you,” she said. Rose recently unleashed a new single with Trinidad and Tobago’s king of Soca, Machel Montano- a track called, “Young Boy”. It’s the second time, in recent years that the pair have worked together to create music in the carnival season. Separately, Rose, who released an album last year called, “So Calypso,” toured throughout Europe last year, showing the people in that part of the world that she certainly remains a powerful force on the music circuit. We can’t wait to see and hear her in all her glory, at Coachella.

- EBuzzTT

Serving Brampton, Mississauga and neighbouring communities 407 since 1981

Our staff is familiar with the diverse traditions of the customers we serve. Let us help ensure that your unique preferences are accommodated. Talk to us today and we’ll explain all your funeral options and help you through your immediate or pre-arrangement needs.

B o u l ev

wso

ur

n

M

Ra

y

La

H

cL

M

M e Ce ado m wv et al er e y

St ee

le

ar

d

sA ve nu e

427

av

is

Ro

au

on

gh

410 ta

lin

rio

Ro

St

re

et

ad

ad

407

401

Vehicle Entrance

7732 Mavis Road | Brampton | 905.451.3716

w w w. m o u n t p l e a s a n t g r o u p . c o m

Meadowvale Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Centres is a business name of Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries. Cemetery and cremation services are provided by Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries.

Funeral services are provided by Canadian Memorial Services which is affiliated with Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries.

F18 - Caribbean - SEP1817 - Meadowvale.indd 1

18/09/2017 11:18:50 AM

LOOKING FOR A LAWYER THAT WILL GO ABOVE AND BEYOND? SOME AREAS OF PRACTICE

Family Law Criminal Law Real Estate Law Civil Litigation

Provincial Offences Matters Parking/Traffic ticket Matters Small Claims Court Matters Landlord and Tenant Matters Notary And Commission Services Also Provided

ASHBOURNE ROBINSON LAW OFFICE

FULL SERVICE LAW OFFICE 18 Wynford Drive, Suite 701, Toronto, Ontario, M3C 3S2 Tel: 416-502-9610 | Fax: 416-502-9619

PAGE 20

feature

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

The ‘helper’s high’: why volunteering makes you happy Common wisdom tells us that by giving, or giving our time, we receive something in return — tangible or otherwise. True to this principle, very often volunteers affirm that volunteering makes them feel happy. This positive effect of volunteering has been called the “helper’s high.”

But what causes this feeling? The field of positive psychology provides a compelling explanation with their research on happiness. Martin Seligman, the field’s leading figure and past president of the American Psychological Association, maintains that there are three types of happiness, or rather three kinds of happy lives: • Pleasant life or life of enjoyment • Good life or life of engagement • Meaningful life or life of affiliation Seligman outlines these modes of happy

living in his books Authentic Happiness (2002) and Flourish (2011). The first mode of living involves the pursuit of pleasure and affords us only transient happiness.

The second involves engagement in tasks in which we feel adept and is a source of durable happiness. The last involves participation in something larger or more permanent than ourselves and is also a source of durable happiness.

It’s the third type of happiness in Seligman’s model, that which derives from a “meaningful” mode of living, that is relevant to volunteering. For Seligman, this happiness stems from a sense of belonging, meaning and purpose. According to both a large body of research and volunteers themselves, volunteering frequently generates these very effects.

Volunteers obtain a sense of belonging from engaging with their community and expanding their social network, and a sense of meaning and purpose from their perception that they’re making a positive difference. Hence the sense of happiness, or this “helper’s high,” that so many volunteers report feeling.

Five benefits of employee volunteering programs What if planting trees, running a 5K or preparing a meal for a homeless shelter was all part of a day’s work? Employee volunteering programs give staff the chance to escape the office for a day and help out in the community. Such programs benefit employees, employers and the community. Here are five key advantages they offer.

1. Boosting morale. Employee volunteering programs provide employees with rewarding experiences, allowing them to simultaneously feel proud of themselves and their company. Teams that partake in such initiatives together become stronger and more cohesive.

2. Developing skills. Volunteering is an effective way of building leadership, teamwork, collaboration, communication and problem-solving skills.

3. Enhancing company image. Customers and clients appreciate companies that make a positive difference. Increased visibility in the community is an excellent way to encourage new business.

4. Attracting the best talent. Companies that volunteer in their community become more attractive to potential employees. This is especially true of the younger generation, who highly value volunteerism.

5.

Making the community better.

Whether the initiative is cleaning up litter, improving the lives of those less fortunate or making an elderly person’s day, employee volunteer programs make communities better.

When companies adopt employee volunteer programs, they reap major rewards for themselves and their employees.

Making a positive impact on the community at large is just one of the many advantages of these programs.

A recent Gallup poll found that companies who took part in employee volunteering programs increased profitability by 16%, general productivity by 18% and customer loyalty by 12%.

PRESENTSPRESENTSPRESENTS

OF

OFREGGAE OFREGGAE REGGAE

IntoThe IntoThe IntoThe

Dancehall Dancehall Dancehall TM TM A JAMBANATMABlack JAMBANA History AMonth Black JAMBANA History Reggae Month Black Jam History ReggaeMonth Jam Reggae Jam

LIVE PERFORMANCES LIVE PERFORMANCES LIVE

BY PERFORMANCES BY BY

.TL

YB

LT. STITCHIE LT.TIGER STITCHIE LT. STITCHIE PINCHERS PINCHERS PINCHERS TIGER TIGER

ALSO FEATURING ALSO FEATURING ALSO FEATURING

EXCO LEVI EXCO LEVI EXCO LEVI

WITH HIGH PRIEST WITH HIGH PRIEST WITH HIGH PRIEST

PAYING TRIBUTE PAYINGTO TRIBUTE PAYINGTO TRIBUTE TO MUSIC BY MUSIC DJ JOSHUA

BY MUSIC DJ JOSHUA LUCAS

BY DJ JOSHUA LUCASGARNETT LUCASGARNETT SILKGARNETT SILK SILK HOSTED BY HOSTED MASTER BY HOSTED MASTER T BY MASTER T T

SAT. FEBRUARY SAT. FEBRUARY SAT. 16, 2019 FEBRUARY 16, 2019 SUN. 16, 2019 FEBRUARY SUN. FEBRUARY SUN. 17, 2019 FEBRUARY 17, 2019 17, 2019 BRAMPTON BRAMPTON BRAMPTON

MONTREAL MONTREAL MONTREAL

JAMAICAJAMAICA ASSOCIATION JAMAICA ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION THE ROSE THETHEATRE ROSE THETHEATRE ROSE THEATRE

OF MONTREAL OF MONTREAL OF MONTREAL 1 Theatre Lane 1 Theatre Lane 1 Theatre Lane 4065 4065West, Jean-Talon Montreal, 4065West, Jean-Talon QC Montreal, West, QC Montreal, QC Brampton,Brampton, ON Brampton, ON ON Jean-Talon

h

TICKET OUTLETS: TICKET OUTLETS: TICKET OUTLETS: TICKET INFO: TICKET INFO: TICKET INFO: EVENTBRITE: http://bit.ly/LegendsMontreal EVENTBRITE: http://bit.ly/LegendsMontreal EVENTBRITE: http://bit.ly/LegendsMontreal http://bit.ly/LegendsBrampton http://bit.ly/LegendsBrampton http://bit.ly/LegendsBrampton JAMAICA ASSOCIATION JAMAICA OF MONTREAL ASSOCIATION - 514-737-8229 JAMAICA OF MONTREAL ASSOCIATION - 514-737-8229 OF MONTREAL - 514-737-8229 PRINCESSA’S BEAUTYPRINCESSA’S PRODUCTS -BEAUTY 1669 Dollard PRINCESSA’S PRODUCTS Ave, Lasalle, -BEAUTY 1669 QC Dollard PRODUCTS • 514-595-4894 Ave, Lasalle, - 1669 QC Dollard • 514-595-4894 Ave, Lasalle, QC • 514-595-4894 905-874-2800 905-874-2800 905-874-2800 FRONTLINE RESTAURANT FRONTLINE - 4615RESTAURANT Ave VanFRONTLINE Horne, - 4615 Montreal, RESTAURANT Ave Van QCHorne, • 514-736-5720 - 4615 Montreal, Ave Van QCHorne, • 514-736-5720 Montreal, QC • 514-736-5720

PRESENTED BY:PRESENTED BY:PRESENTED BY:

D m roF

PRESENTED BY: PRESENTED BY: PRESENTED BY:

DOORS OPEN DOORS - 7OPEN DOORS PM • SHOWTIME - 7OPEN PM • SHOWTIME - 7 -PM 8 PM • SHOWTIME • Tickets - 8 PM •Start Tickets - 8 PM @ $•Start 25 Tickets @ $Start 25 @ $25 For more info: For 905-452-1911 more info: For 905-452-1911 |more jambana.com/legends info: 905-452-1911 | jambana.com/legends || jambana.com/legends #LegendsOfReggae | #LegendsOfReggae | @JAMBANAFestival | #LegendsOfReggae | @JAMBANAFestival | @JAMBANAFestival POWERED BYPOWERED KUUMBA CULTURAL BYPOWERED KUUMBA ASSOCIATION CULTURAL

BY KUUMBA ASSOCIATION OF CULTURAL TORONTOASSOCIATION OF TORONTOOF TORONTO

4984-595 0275-63

5 lavits

SALE!

Don’t miss out on your chance to SAVE!

Home & Auto Insurance • Condo, Tenant & Rented Dwellings • Commercial Auto • Trucking • Business • Professional Liability

MULTI COMPANIES REPRESENTATION Brian Watson 416-836-7397 bwatson@unionins.com

BUY 2 4oz ORTHOGEL

GET A QUOTE FREE ONLINE www.unisonins.com

40

$

Only until February 1, 2019 Buy now, while supplies last

647-499-1444 | info@intelligenthealthgroup.ca 57 Mill St. N. Unit 102 Brampton ON L6X 1S9

110 Brickyard Way, Unit 10 Brampton ON L6V 4N1

Register now for Kindergarten If your child was born in 2015, they can start kindergarten in September 2019

All Peel District School Board elementary schools are now open for kindergarten registration for the 2019–20 school year.

To register, visit www.peelschools.org/kindergarten and visit the school your child will attend any time during school hours.

Elementary schools will also hold special events and school tours during Kindergarten Registration Week from Jan. 14 to 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and from 5 to 8 p.m. on Jan. 17. Join us to learn more about our exciting kindergarten program!

www.peelschools.org/kindergarten

WITH 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WHO ELSE WOULD YOU TRUST?

“It was a pleasure hiring you as my agent. You have raised the bar in my area when you sold my property in three days for 104%. When it was time to buy, I've seen you have put the latest technologies to work and was able to lower the bar* in my current neighbourhood. Well done to you and your Team.�

- Omesh and Sue

$738,700

$889,900

Large home near Humber college

Ideal for a busy family-nothing to do

Prime Etobicoke location. This home features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, main floor living and family room and a separate dining room. The basement is finished with 2 more bedrooms. This home is well kept.

Everything in this home is upgraded. Features 9 feet ceiling, tall Windows, granite counters and hardwood floors. There is a main floor laundry and double car garage,5 bedrooms, 5 washrooms and a basement apartment with separate entrance. Extras include, lawn sprinklers, fireplace and top of the line appliances.

$609,900

$519,900

Modern Townhome

Everything is upgraded

2-Year New with an Open Concept Main Floor, Modern Kitchen and internal access from the garage. The master bedroom has a walk in closet and full ensuite. There is a finished recreation room in the basement and rough in for a washroom.

Features New Oak Floors, new windows and doors, modern Kitchen and newer furnace , circuit breakers and central air condition.

Features include 3 bedrooms, 2 washrooms, private driveway, garage and fenced lot. One bus to subway.

$739,900

$349,500 Affordable solutions

Rear gem

Features 3 bedrooms, mirror closets, new laminate floors, mew washroom, modern kitchen with stainless Steele appliances and granite countertops, marble tiles and dining room with modern cabinets. The basement is finished with washroom and recreational area. TTC at doorstep.

Almost 2000 sq feet plus a finished basement. Features include 3 large bedrooms, computer loft, double car garage, master bedroom with 6-piece washroom and walk in closet, main floor family room with gas fireplace and a finished basement with a wet bar and washroom. Clean as a whistle.

TheBrij.com

3500+ HOMES * Sales mean both buyer and seller transactions from 1990 to 2016, Team Sales combined.

Anjie Brijpaul,

Direct: 416.988.5369 Office: 416-745-2300

MA Sales Representative

Jay Brijpaul, Broker, FRI

Direct: 416.418.2745 (BRIJ) Office: 416-745-2300

96 Rexdale Blvd.

Toronto ON M9W 1N7

*

Danforth

DFM National Spice Bun 4 oz

Food Market www.danforthfoodmarket.com

Fresh Chicken Leg Quarters Back Attached

Frozen Chicken Drumsticks

27 2

19

We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.

69

¢

Grace Corned Beef

each Assorted 340 g each

2

99 each

Choice Jamaica Ackees 540 ml

5

99 each each

20 2/

Marshall’s Alaskan Pollock Salted Bits 200 g

99 $

$

18 kg case with the Purchase of 2 case or more

Save Time & Money

Easy Cook Young Milk Fed Oxtail

Frozen Chicken Wings

24

99% Fat Trimmed & Cutted Frozen or Previously Frozen

Peardrax Sparkling Pear Drink 1 lt

3

99 each

Lou & Nick’s Lemon Juice 750 ml

89

¢

each

Serge Peanut Punch 290 ml

3

$

2/

79 5

¢ $ 99 lb

Ting Sparkling Grapefruit Beverage 300 ml

each

2

99

312 g

each

2/

155 g

170-290 g

1

$

AA-1 Sardines

Caribbean Kitchen Spices

Phoenicia Chick Peas 540 ml

3

99 2/

737 g

1

$

2/

Pride of The World Ionizes Table Salt

Mr. Goudas Jerk Mackerel

in Tomato Sauce 425 g

1

$

2/

each

1

79 each

Grace Hot Pepper Sauce 85 g

99

¢

each

5

15 lbs

each

99

¢

lb

Fresh Seafood Catches

4

4

Fresh Brazilian Goat Fish

Fresh Atlantic Whole Salmon

4

4

Fresh Florida Whole King Fish

4

$ 99 $ 49 $ 49 $ 99 $ 99 lb as is

lb as is

lb as is Fresh

lb as is

Fresh

lb as is

Jamaican Pumpkin

Cassava

Fresh

Fresh Jamaican

99

Mr. Goudas Yellow Corn Meal

2

3

Fresh Large or Small Fresh Brazilian Lane or Yellow Tail Grunt Fish Snapper Grace Hot Jerk Seasoning

Fresh Beef Liver

$ 99 lb

$ 99 lb

YOU DON’T PAY FOR FAT NOR CUT-UP WASTE!

$ 69 lb

16 lb case with the Purchase of 2 case or more

Previously Frozen Beef Shank Steak Centre Cut

Frozen Goat Meat

Don’t Over Cook Your Oxtail; 45 Minutes Top!

1

95

99 $

20 lb case with the Purchase of 2 case or more

Fresh Chicken Soup Bone

Cooking Bananas

Yellow Yams

79 79 2 Five Locations To Serve You Better ¢

99

lb

lb

1

¢

49

lb

lb

Specials in Effect Thu. Jan. 10th until Wed. Jan. 16th, 2019.

Although we strive for accuracy in both copy & illustration, unintentional error may occur, we reserve the right to correct any error. Specials Available While Quantities Last. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

each

1.89 lt

each

Assorted 372 ml

each

Sheppard Ave. E .

Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397

Mon.-Fri. 9am to 9pm Saturday 9am to 9pm Sunday Lawrence Ave. E .

10am to 7pm

Store Hours

Steeles Ave. E .

Danforth Food Market 3051 Pharmacy Ave North Finch 416-490-9219

Mon.-Thu. 8:30am 8pm Fri. & Sat. 8:30am-8:30pm Sunday 9am to 6 pm Finch Ave. E.

Store Hours

Mon.-Thu. 9:30am 9pm Fri. & Sat. 9 am-9 pm Sunday 9am to 6 pm

Bloor St. E.

Danforth Food Market 1225 Dundas St. Dixie & Dundas Missisauga 905-949-9990

Dixie Rd.

¢

Store Hours

Cawtra Rd.

99

Palmolive Dish Washing Liquid

D r.

2

29

Mon.-Fri. ion 9am to 9pm Roa d Saturday 9am to 9pm Sunday Sheppard Ave. W . 10am to 8pm Finch Ave. W .

Si lv er st on e

89

Clorox Original Bleach

Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870

Pharmacy Rd.

500 ml

¢

Steeles Ave. W.

Markam Rd.

Each each

Pur-est Liquid Soap

Store Hours

Martin Grove Rd.

185 g

¢

Mon.-Fri. 9am to 9pm Saturday 8 am to 9pm Sunday 9 am to 7pm

Finch Ave. W.

Danforth Food Market 3701 Keele St. 416-398-8123

Keele St.

99

Aurora Linda Laundry Soap

Store Hours

Dundas St. E.

food

PAGE 26

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

New Year, New Ideas, recipes and tips for a New You! NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT

2019 is finally here and as usual we are all making our own new year eating resolution or setting body goals. Usually in January the gym is packed then things start to fade by March the latest. However, a gym instructor will tell you that abs are built in the kitchen so is a good body. For the month of January, I will be sharing recipes and tips for a new you, then I’ll be taking you on a culinary journey throughout the remaining of the year.

Eating healthy is a lifestyle, not just an overnight change. I believe that small steps can lead to big growth. I have prepared five tips that can easily start you on your way.

Portion control Before we start changing our diet, I believe that controlling portions is the beginning of change. Once you can control how much you eat then you are pretty much on your way to a better body.

Balanced meal I believe the more colors you have on your plate the better your meal is. Once you cover portion control it is time to now ensure your meal is balanced. A balanced meal consists of protein, starch, dairy, fruits and vegetables, fats and sugar. Having at least five at once is considered balanced.

Breakfast This is the most important meal for the day.

The term literally means break your fast. We often skip breakfast and then we try and catch up with lunch or dinner which is very wrong. Breakfast helps to boost our metabolism and set the mood for the day ahead.

DENTURE CLINIC That improves your smile Marcia James, DD DENTURIST (Denture Specialist)

• Implant Denture • Complete Full Denture • Night Mouth Guard • Sport Mouth Guard • Partial Acrylic Denture • Immediate Denture • Partial Metal Denture • Reline and Rebase

ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED | SAME DAY REPAIRS DONE IN CLINIC CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

416.317.9763

852 Bathurst St. 410-105 Rowena Drive 647 McCowan Rd. Toronto ON M5R 3G1 North York ON M3A 1R2 Scarborough ON M1J 1K3

Sleep As much as eating and cardio are important so is our sleep. Sleep helps to burn fat while you rest. So, add extra rest to your new year’s plans.

Eating on time Make sure you eat on time to prevent cravings. When you starve yourself, your body goes into a panic and starts to crave sweets and unhealthy foods Spicy Roasted Chickpeas & Kale Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing Try this quick healthy and delicious kale salad pack with all the nutrients you need to refresh and restart your body.

Ingredients Salad: • 1 bunch kale (washed, stalks removed & coarsely chopped) • 14 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed • 14 oz can roasted chickpeas • 1 cup sweet corn

• • •

2 large red bell peppers, diced 1 cup cherry tomato, halved 1/2 red onion, Diced

Dressing: • 1 large avocado • ½ cup olive oil • 1 tsp lime, • 1 pinch tsp salt and pepper • ¼ cup rice wine vinegar Directions 1. Season chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika and salt and pepper then put to roast for 15 to 20 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Combine all the ingredients for the dressing in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy then put to chill.

3. Toss together all the ingredients for the salad in a large bowl then toss with dressing.

ARE YOU HAVING PROBLEMS CROSSING THE BORDER?

DO YOU HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD? ROBINSON

Legal Services Your Least Cost Solution

TEL: 416-628-5951 CELL: 416-871-2627

We Specialize In US Waivers, Criminal Records Destruction and Pardons

DISCOVER YOUR GROOVE

NOW HIRING IMMEDIATE POSITIONS

www.CasketDepot.ca

CASKETS STARTING FROM

$

899

Administrative Position Estimator Position Project Manager Position General Manager Position

Financing Available

235 Nugget Ave., Unit 3&4 Scarborough ON M1S 3L3 Office 416.321.5699 | Toll Free 1.866.511.5688 fb.com/casketdepotca

Candidates should be self motivated, posses the understanding of a fast paced environment and have a great attention to detail, a desire to succeed, and understand the importance of team work.

MYC Media consists of several different divisions of our digital and print marketing companies combined into one full-service digital and print agency. Our Corporate philosophy is heavily weighted on accountability, quality and service, with an outlook on the future.

We always go above and beyond and believe in understanding our customers business and needs without sacrificing quality or service for the price.

$62.99

LACE WIG ZION now

$62.99

Vita lip gloss 14ml [Mint oil & Rosehip oil & Coconut oil]

LACE

OFF

LACE

KERRY now $55.99 WIG

SHAYNAnow$62.99 WIG

30%

Markham Rd Dufferin St

Professional carbon comb #AHCB01-12

Click glossy color lipstick #MLCG01-18

#GLC890-899

30%

OFF

LACE

JANE now $55.99 WIG MALINA now $41.99

#GLH701-708

10 y4 Hw

OFF

OFF

OFF

LACE WIG VANAnow

$41.99

Reg$7.99

4 99

Power wave -Military satin durag -Duo color fashion durag

OTTAWA

Semi permanent hair color

Eyelashes

Donald St

EMPIRE CURLY

to

up to

OFF

18”20”22”139.99

30%

to

164.99

up to

$25

#HDUPPM01-06 #HDUPPD01-06

OFF

BOHO DEEP NATURAL BODY Natural fusions line

Pure Honey 5 9

Curling wand

10

Stone Church Rd W

1400 Upper James st, Unit 5 tel: 289.674.3000

1,1B,2,4

SWEET POP

ALL

ALL

14” 67.99

14.99

15.99

20”108.99

Eglinton Ave E

79.99

to 127.99

up to

$20 OFF

SHOP AT WWW.CLOREBEAUTY.COM OVER 11,000 PRODUCTS ONLINE

#CIW01-09

EGLINTON

YAKY CLIP KISS POP

HAMILTON

14” 41.99

72.99

59.99

10”12”14”

Warden Ave

24.99 53.99

997 St. Laurent Blvd tel: 613.742.5673

N.BLK & N.BRN

1,1B,2,4 10” 19.99

Upper James St

LACE WIG

30%

Glitter magic shimmer shifting lip color 3ml Dundas St W

#BCLG0101, 201, 301

30%

30%

Glow in up highlighting jelly 8.5g

Dr E

LACE WIG KEZIAH now

OFF

Hurontario St

30%

OFF

Bo va ird

$69.99

30%

St. Laurent Blvd

DAISYnow $83.99

LACE WIG ISADORAnow

WIGS

BRAMPTON

LACE WIG

OFF

Bloor St W

MISSISAUGA

30%

OFF

5085 Sheppard Ave East Unit 30

1126 Bloor St West tel: 416.588.2800 Salon: 416.588.2594

NEW ARRIVALS

30%

Holographic lip gloss #RHLG01-06

off

Sheppard Ave E

BLOOR WEST

30

%

All over glow face&body powder #RRHP00-03

Jan.2nd -Feb.10th, 2019

• INSPIRING BEAUTY •

RUBY KISSES

SCARBOROUGH

All over glow face&body Stick highlighter#RHBC01,02

1146 Westport Crescent, #2, Mississauga, ON L5T1G1 416-907-9491 www.mycmedia.com

8 Lebovic Ave, Unit B8 tel: 416.755.5673

seasonal

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Choosing the perfect wedding shoes When it comes to accessories that complement your wedding dress, your shoes are arguably the most important. You want your footwear to both reflect your personal style and be comfortable enough to wear as you dance the night away. Here’s a guide to picking the perfect wedding shoes.

• Choose your dress first. You’ll want to match the style of shoes to your dress.

• Make sure they fit. The best time to shop for shoes is in the late afternoon. If they’re comfortable after a day of work, they’ll fit perfectly on your wedding day.

• Don’t experiment with high heels. If you’re not used to wearing heels, don’t attempt to wear them at your wedding. There are many flat and wedge styles that make beautiful — and comfortable — bridal shoes.

• Make a statement. Shoes are a great way to add a pop of colour to your wedding attire.

• Bring them to your dress fitting. If your dress is long, it’ll need to be adjusted to the height of your shoes.

1. Limit your guest list: only request the presence of the people that matter to you. Avoid inviting distant relatives you ne­ver see.

•

2. Find a beautiful location: art galleries and botanical gardens are venue options that won’t need extra decorations.

Lastly, don’t forget to book a pedicure before your wedding.

Nothing looks better in stunning shoes than prettily pampered feet.

Three wedding photography trends you need to know about Whether you spend two weeks or two years planning your wedding, it’ll be over in the blink of an eye. To ensure you capture the event with beautiful photographs you’ll appreciate for a lifetime, take a look at these three inspiring wedding photography trends: 1. Drone photography. If your wedding is taking place in a beautiful outdoor location, a drone can create awe-inspiring photos that are impossible to get from the ground. Since photography drones are basically miniature helicopters with cameras attached to them, be sure to hire an experienced and licenced operator to avoid disaster.

2. Smoke bombs. Photographers are now incorporating colourful puffs of smoke that add an unexpected and untradi-

Seven ways to save money without sacrificing your dream wedding Traditional weddings can cost an arm and a leg, and sometimes leave the couple in debt before they even begin their lives together. Here are seven ways to save money while still having the wedding of your dreams.

Break them in. Wear your shoes around the house to avoid any nasty surprises on the day of your wedding. If they’re tight or uncomfortable, bring them to a shoemaker to stretch them out a bit.

tional element to wedding photos.

Available in any colour, smoke bombs can be used in different ways to add touches of whimsy or drama to your pictures.

PAGE 29

5. Get a deal on the dress: buy your dress at a sample sale, or consider renting or buying a used one.

6. Minimize your florist bill: use candles as your centrepieces instead of flowers.

7. Make your own wedding album: find a photographer that will give you all of the day’s pictures on a flash drive and use an online tool to create your own photo book.

3. Choose a restaurant: not only will the food be better, but you’ll also have all the tables, chairs and linens you need.

4. Only serve beer and wine: or if cocktails are your thing, create a signature drink to offer your guests.

Fabulous wedding favours and unique bridal party gifts

3. Photojournalistic photos. Also called reportage style photography, these photos have a more candid and natural look than traditional shots. While your photographer will likely still cue you for some pictures, they’ll be using smaller, less obtrusive cameras to capture intimate moments from your wedding ceremony and reception.

No matter what type of pictures you eventually want to see framed on your mantle, the key to having beautiful photographs you and your partner will love is to work closely with your photographer.

Trying to decide on wedding favours? Or maybe you’re wondering what types of gifts to purchase for your bridal party? In either case, here are a few ideas to look into.

FOR THE GUESTS • Flip flops: these will be a hit when people’s feet start to hurt from dancing • Flower seeds or bulbs: your guests can grow your wedding flowers at home • Coaster with your initials: opt for a natural material like cork or wood FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS • Tote bags: have hemp or canvas bags personalized with their names • Jewelry: a dainty necklace or bracelet that matches their dresses

• Floral robes: they’ll have something to wear while getting ready and they’ll look great in your photos FOR THE GROOMSMEN • Flasks: if they’re a group that likes to party, these will get a lot of use • Monogrammed pocket watches: a good timepiece never goes out of style • Fun socks: men don’t always get a chance to show their personality, so get them some fun socks to wear with their suits Show some appreciation to your guests and bridal party by giving special wedding favours and gifts. And be sure to accompany the selected token with a simple thank you.

Become an Immigration Legal Assistant in as little as three months.

IMMIGRATION MATTERS

Ramkissoon & Associates Canadian Immigration Consultants | Business Services Immigration Appeal (Residency, Sponsorship, Removal Order) • Sponsorships • Detention Reviews • Temporary Residency Visa • Express Entry • Provincial Nomination • Humanitarian Compassionate

Cindy Ramkissoon-Shears

Sukhram Ramkissoon

OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE | SPECIALIZING IN ALL AREAS OF CANADIAN IMMIGRATION

Build on your administrative skills and learn from an industryrecognized institution. Establish a career as an Immigration Legal Assistant and earn a median annual salary of $39,000* with career advancement opportunities.

Contact an Admissions Officer at 1(844) 628-5784 or register online at AshtonCollege.ca/ILAC for the next intake.

IMMIGRATION LEGAL ASSISTANT CERTIFICATE Learn on campus or LIVE Online

*Source: www.payscale.com

3089 Bathurst Street, Unit 219A Toronto M6A 2A4 416 789 5756

2390 Eglinton Avenue East, Unit 207 Scarborough, ON M1K 2P5 416 288 1486

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

The facts on gingivitis Gingivitis is one of the most common oral diseases. Here’s what you need to know to prevent, detect and treat it.

WHAT IS GINGIVITIS? Gingivitis is a common and mild form of periodontal disease that exhibits the follo­ wing symptoms: • Redness, swelling and irritation in the gums • Tender gums • Receding gums • Bleeding gums when brushing or flushing • Bad breath WHAT CAUSES IT? Poor oral hygiene leading to plaque formation is the main cause of gingivitis. Plaque

is a transparent, sticky film that forms on the teeth and is composed of bacteria. It’s the product of starches and sugars interacting with the bacteria naturally found in the mouth. If plaque remains on teeth, it hardens and turns to tartar. Both plaque and tartar irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis.

HOW IS IT PREVENTED? Prevention involves good oral hygiene.

Brush twice a day, floss daily and get your teeth professionally cleaned every six to 12 months. Healthy eating plays an important role too.

HOW IS IT TREATED? As soon as tartar begins to form on the teeth, professional dental cleaning is required, as tartar can’t be removed with brushing alone. To prevent its reappearance, one needs to change oral cleaning, and perhaps dietary, habits. More advanced cases might require antibiotic medications or even surgery.

WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS? If left untreated, gingivitis can cause serious complications such as swollen lymph nodes and tooth loss. Prevent this disease: practise good oral hygiene and have your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis.

The condition is sometimes caused by genetic factors, such as toenails that naturally curl inward. However, very often you can prevent ingrown toenails: do these four things and you should be safe.

PAGE 31

What you need to know about age-related macular degeneration Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a condition that affects over six million people globally and is the leading cause of blindness in North Americans over the age of 55.

WHAT IS AMD? The eye condition involves the degeneration the macula, the innermost part of the retina, which is responsible for central, high-resolution vision. This type of vision is integral to such activities as reading, driving and recognizing faces. Essentially, macular degeneration causes the centre of your vision to blur, while leaving the side or peripheral vision unaffected.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet.

The dry form accounts for 90 per cent of all cases but the wet form results in the largest number of instances leading to blindness.

SYMPTOMS In its early stages, AMD doesn’t present symptoms. However, it can be detected during routine eye exams. The first symptom will likely be slightly blurred central vision that occurs while performing tasks for which seeing detail is necessary; glasses won’t correct it.

TREATMENT Treatment for AMD may involve vitamins, anti-angiogenesis drugs (which have allowed patients to regain their vision in some cases) and laser therapy. There are also magnifying devices that people with AMD can use to maximize their remaining vision.

Early detection of AMD is important, as certain treatments can slow the disease or reduce its severity. Given the absence of symptoms in the initial stages, having eye exams regularly is advisable.

Seven tips for effectively managing your medications Medications need to be taken correctly in order to work properly and not jeopardize your health and safety. When you have multiple prescriptions, this can become difficult. Here are seven things you can do to simplify managing your medications.

5. When taking medication, respect the prescribed dosage and treatment period.

If you’ve forgotten a dose, don’t double it: speak to your pharmacist.

1. Cut your toenails in such a way that they are straight or square rather than rounded, and don’t cut them too short.

1. To reduce the chances of missing a dose, synchronize taking medication with a daily activity such as brushing your teeth or eating breakfast.

6. Properly store your medications: keep them in their original container, far from heat sources or moisture and out of reach of children.

2. Don’t wear shoes that constrict your toes, and wear footwear appropriate to the activity you’re doing.

2. Take advantage of services and products offered by your pharmacy. This may include the following:

7. Regularly check the expiry dates on your medication. Return expired medication to your pharmacy.

3. Practise good hygiene and change your socks every day.

• Daily call reminders for taking medication • Online or preauthorized prescription renewal • Delivery of medication to your home • Synchronization of renewal dates for your various medication • Large-print labels • Easy-to-open packages • Pillboxes

For further advice on how to safely and effectively manage your medications, talk to your pharmacist.

Four tips for preventing ingrown toenails Onychocryptosis, also known as an ingrown toenail, is a fairly common medical issue. It involves the edge of the toenail piercing then growing into the skin. This generally occurs with the big toe. The result is inflammation, mild discomfort and potentially an infection.

health

4.

Prevent socks from becoming overly moist by wearing socks and shoes made of breathable materials.

An ingrown toenail can have serious consequences if an infection results. Treatment varies from case to case, so it’s best to seek a diagnosis from a podiatrist. Your podiatrist will be able not only to provide the appropriate treatment but also to determine the source of the problem.

3. Consult your pharmacist before buying over-the-counter medication (including natural health products) in order to prevent reactions with other medication you’re taking.

4. Gain a thorough knowledge of your medication by asking your pharmacist

about it.

PAGE 32

yoga

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Invigorate your Yoga Practice TRISHA CURLING

trishacurling@carib101.com

YOGA SPECIALIST

The idea of getting on your mat sometimes can feel less than thrilling. You might feel like your practice is a little stale or you might be less than enthusiastic after the holidays when you may have indulged a little bit more than you usually do day to day.

Chances are, you’re feeling a little bit more sluggish and less motivated. On the other hand, you might have set some intentions for the new year, some which might include improving your health.

If you’re feeling stuck, or unsure about what to get back to in your yoga practice, I’ve laid out three points for you to consider in order to invigorate your time on the mat, which will have a direct impact on your life off the mat.

1. Try a different type of yoga If you are used to one way of practicing, it might be nice to explore something new.

For example, if you are used to a more vigorous style, try a restorative yoga class, where you will make connections to your breath and relaxation response in a new way. Restorative yoga helps to reduce the stress response and it also turns on the digestive system. This may help to create a deeper sense of balance in your nervous system, therefore reduced stress.

2. Set a goal of achieving a new pose This is something that can help you to gain

an increased amount of confidence and discipline. The prep work on the journey to this new pose will keep you focused on small, yet achievable goals. You will be so caught up in the enjoyment of the journey that it will bring arguably more fulfillment than achieving the pose itself. The gradual changes you see will keep you motivated to do more.

3. Refine your transitions It’s easy to get caught up in the alignment of each singular pose (not that this is not important), but the way in which you transition between poses is crucial as well. It means that you are moving with more awareness and intention. It means that you are moving safely to connect each pose.

Refining transitions can help to strengthen your balance, it can help you to move better with your breathing. It can also help you to connect more deeply with the parts

of your body that are working. When you connect with the various parts of the body in this way, you will have a better impact on achieving some of the benefits that are available to you, like increased flexibility, strength, stability, and mobility.

These three points alone will allow you to get so much more out of your practice. You will gain more discipline and a sense of accomplishment. Not only will this make you feel good about how you show up on the mat, but you can take these same ideas into other areas of your life. Imagine trying a new activity completely unrelated to yoga or setting a new goal of what you would like to achieve with your career.

Work on the steps and transitions of what it takes to achieve these things and you are set on a path to achieve all that you desire.

Invigorate your practice…invigorate your life.

+ A

Community Development Services Community Development Services

Proven Results • Qualified Tutors • Flexible Rates

Give Your Children an Edge!

Specialized services are affordable; sessions are tailor made to suit your budget great or small.

We offer One-on-One packages as well as Group Rates!

Whether you want to stay on track or soar ahead, let us create your success story!

Contact us at 416-551-2469 or find us online at hear-2-help.com

PAGE 34

community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

The power of thought; thinking yourself into a powerful 2019, part 1 SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

Happy New Year Toronto! I hope you don’t mind if I start this edition off with a little prayer. The power of the spoken word has been studied and has been proven to work.

Speaking positive words over your year feels like a great place to start.

“Thank you for the opportunity to enter this New Year with our right minds and hearts. Although great things were accomplished last year, we speak power into 2019. Mistakes made will be learned from, and mistakes not yet made will be accepted as learning lessons. Our success is expected because we are willing to work towards our goals, and set our mind for success. WE thank the universe for opening up doors for us and closing the doors that we have stepped through. WE will continue to work towards the good of ourselves, and of the community.”

All right, let’s get started. First step; do away with your resolutions because if you had not started on them in 2018, you are most likely not going to carry through

with them. Resolutions are a wonderful concept in theory, but reality shows what most of our resolutions are dissolved by the beginning of February. “Well, now what,” you might be asking? “How do I make positive changes for my future?” “How do I set the goals that I need in order to accomplish my success?” It all starts in the mind.

As you get older, it gets harder and harder to change aspects of yourself.

Actually, after the age of 25, it is near impossible. Now, do realize that I said near impossible, not impossible. Majority of the changes that we make after the age of 25 are due to traumatic events. We really have to feel pain in order to make changes that we should have made years ago. Why is that? Well, the unfortunate answer is that is just how our brains work. The only true way to start moving forward is to realize that you might have been moving backward this whole time.

Not all of us were given the correct directions when we were younger, and due to that, we are walking through life lost as hell. We were all given a compass, but not many of us were taught how to use it, or if we were taught, we have been going the wrong direction. In saying that, at some point, you have to accept responsibility for your actions, and make the changes necessary in order to truly live the life you want to live. This will mean that you have to completely reset your mind (your compass),

and start from where you are. This month, I am going to help you out with that by providing you with some thought-provoking ideas that will help to change your life.

Now, this change has to be for you, not for your friends, family or spouse. The motivation has to be internal and not created from external pressures. You ready? Let’s begin.

The majority of my quotes are from a book that I came across about 12 years ago. A Thousand Paths to a Peaceful Life, by David Baird, has been a go-to book since it fell into my lap. It has allowed me to ask some tough questions and figure out the answers to my own self-destructive behavior. I will present one of the quotes with an explanation, and then you can join my next edition, where I will provide you with some more paths to a peaceful life.

“One hand washes the other.”

For all of those people who think that they can do this life thing alone, you are sorely mistaken. Humans need each other, and there is no way around it. Your first step for the New Year is to find the other hands that are willing to wash with you, learn with you, and create with you. Choose wisely, and trust your gut when choosing these people.

SPECIAL NOTE; these people may not be who you think they are, so remain open to all opportunities.

Shielding yourself from the world COLLEEN LINDBERG colleen@carib101.com

LIFESTYLE COACH

An interesting subject matter for this month of January. Let me build you a story.

You sat with yourself on New Year’s and reflected on the year that had just past, all the lessons you learned, relationships that came and went, the struggles you endured and decided that 2019 was going to be different. You set goals, reminded yourself that you are worth it and can achieve. You created lists and plans for execution.

Then January 2nd, 2019 hit, and you are out with friends. You decide to share your discoveries and talk about your plans for the new year. Then it happens, the questions. “Well, how are you actually going to achieve that” “Be realistic that isn’t

who you are” “It does happen that way, you need to” and I could go on and on. You feel defeated and it’s just the second day of the year.

Well here’s what I am going to advise you to do. Set your goals anyways.

Stand in your space alone if you have to, but don’t give up on what you want. Those that are aligned with your goals will come out of the woodwork to encourage and support you. We all have people in our lives that we can and can’t share our goals with, unfortunately. We have the cheerleaders and then the wet blankets. It’s just the diversity of life. However, we need to protect ourselves from the wet blankets. From the ones that want to take our light. If they are still in your life, because you work with them, or they are family or maybe even your spouse (sorry about that if it is) you have to really weigh out how much you share with them and how much time you spend around them. We all have choices in our life. We really do, sometimes you feel that you don’t, but you really do. If you are wanting 2019 to be a year of change, you are going to really need to arm yourself

with tools to take you there. So here are a few suggestions.

Set your intentions (goals) for the year and make sure you post them everywhere that you can see them. The first month of the year is always great but it takes some stamina to really push through the rest of the year.

Create a plan and work the plan.

The plan will align your intentions and the actions will get you the results.

If you find you need help with focus find an accountability partner, group or coach to help you this year and make sure you stay on track.

Lastly, find positive people and organizations to align yourself with. This will help you stay committed as you are feeling happy about life. It’s important to be in this space and have people aligned here with us.

Whatever you want 2019 to look like you can have it. Choose who you spend your time with, be smart about your choices and lean into change. You got this!

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

life

PAGE 35

Is your will foolproof? How to avoid challenges to wills VALERIE DYE valerie@carib101.com

LEGAL SPECIALIST

Now that we have entered a new year some persons may be thinking of making a will to ensure that their estate is managed smoothly after they die. Although making a will is very important, it is equally important to ensure that the will is foolproof and will not be challenged in court after you pass away.

The Courts are replete with actions brought by disgruntled loved ones who seek to challenge a will. What are some of the things that can open a will to challenges in court?

One of the grounds for challenging a will is that the testator may not have

had the capacity to make a will. Lack of testamentary capacity most often occurs if the testator does not have the presence of mind to understand that he or she is making a will.

The testator must also understand and be aware of the amount of property he or she owns, understand the extent of what he is giving to his beneficiaries under the will and remembers the people who should normally benefit under the will. Once suspicious circumstances are found, then the persons seeking to probate the will must prove that the testator had the capacity to make the will.

As highlighted in cases such as Laframboise v. Laframboise, 2011 ONSC a testator may have a mental disorder but still have the capacity to make a will. In that case, the court found that despite the fact that the testator suffered from depression and mood swings he still had testamentary capacity. A testator may suffer from memory loss and other cognitive challenges or be unable to

take care of himself but still, have testamentary capacity. In Re Weidenberger Estate, [2002] A.J. No 1157 the court stated that: ‘The fact that the deceased was mentally ill and suffered from confusion is not determinative as to whether the deceased did or did not have the requisite testamentary capacity. Cognitive impairment or confusion alone is not grounds for declaring a person incapable of making a will.

Even a testator who suffers from delusions may still be found to have testamentary capacity unless the delusion is of the type that is classified as insanity and affects his judgment in relation to his property and beneficiaries.

It is clear that having mental health issues does not in itself mean that a person lacks testamentary capacity. However, one way to safeguard against allegations of testamentary incapacity is to make a will before the occurrence of advanced age or advanced illness.

Wills can also be challenged on the ground that there was undue influence or duress exerted upon the testator that caused him to dispose of his property in a way that he did not wish to. The risk of undue influence is greater with a testator who is old and depends on someone to take care of him. As stated in Duschl vs Duschl Estate a claim of undue influence may succeed if it is shown that the testator was placed under such coercion that if he could speak, he would say “This is not my wish, but I must do it’. However, it is not enough to show that the party benefitting under the will had the power to coerce the testator. That person must have actually exercised that power and caused the testator to make a will against his wishes. One way of preventing claims of undue influence is to ensure that beneficiaries are not present when the will is being made.

Furthermore, it is important to note that if a beneficiary or his or her spouse witnesses a will, the gift to that beneficiary will be void.

2018… T’was a good year KATHY McDONALD kathy@carib101.com

SCHOOL TRUSTEE

2018 was filled with many significant personal and professional achievements and ended on a high. The week of December 17th began with one successful meeting or event after another. The evening of the 17th ended with a very positive Human Resources meeting. I had two motions that were referred to this committee and while I can’t discuss the details of the meeting I will say that I left feeling a sense of hope, that equity and inclusion for all students could be a reality at the Peel District School Board (PDSB).

On the 18th the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) meeting was very productive. The PDSB staff updated Trustees and SEAC members about supports and resources for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, both the presentation and the feedback were invaluable.

On Wednesday the Poverty Report and the PDSB Action Plan was unveiled. A well thought out logic model was presented as well as clear targets and goals. This was discussed at length during the December 27th edition of my column.

On Thursday night we had the We Rise Together Community Advisory (WRTCA) meeting. The WRTCA is an advisory body of the PDSB that provides input into the We Rise Together Action Plan (WRTAP), the PDSB action plan to support black students. The Board wants to ensure that the PDSB mission “to inspire success confidence and hope in all students” really means all students. At this meeting Dr. Carl James, the Jean Augustine Chair in education at York University presented some findings of research being conducted. Dr. James’ research and the findings as well as the PDSB response to his research will be discussed in depth in a future article.

June’s provincial election was full of surprises. While the writing was on the wall for the Liberals very few expected a Progressive Conservative majority government and the Liberals would lose their official party status. Mitzie Hunter and Michael Coteau both retained their seats. Education 2019 is on course for an eventful year.

On October 2nd the Trustees of the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) appointed Camille Williams-Taylor as their Director of Education. Ms. WilliamsTaylor will be responsible for the operational aspect of the OCDSB. She will oversee approximately 1 billion dollars annually and will lead 143 schools, 73,000 students 10,000 educators and thousands of parents and community partners to provide an outstanding educational experience for all. Ms.Taylor is Canada’s third black Director of Education

and OCDSB’s first.

Municipalities across Ontario held elections. In Brampton we had a lot to celebrate as we elected Charmaine Williams as the city councilor for wards 7 and 8. This energetic mother of five won the election the old fashioned way. She pounded the pavement and shared her ambitious and practical vision for the city. I was also re-elected to the PDSB as well as David Green. PDSB retired superintendent of Education and tireless advocate for equity, Dr. Elizabeth Sinclair-Artwell was elected as a trustee for the York Regional District School Board. Durham District School Board re-elected Patrice Barnes from North Ajax.

Kangaroo Court was in session on December 4th as community advocate and judge, Donald Mcleod had to defend his actions over his role in an organization he founded, the Federation of Black Canadians.

Justice McLeod is a man who is currently enjoying a relatively comfortable existence but is willing to share his experiences growing up in Regent Park and being raised by a single mother. The trumped up charges and accusations were made in my humble opinion to derail and to silence a black man that has made it by the sweat of his brow and was “getting too big for his britches”. He’s a family man, a man with an attractive salary that really doesn’t need the headache, exhaustion and often thankless job of advocating for the voiceless, but he does it anyway.

In a classic textbook “Willie Lynch Letter” style attack, our own people helped

Private mortgages with

NO LENDING FEES

oz

Home equity loans from 3,000-30,000 and NO LEGAL FEES

powered by

Zvika Shluper

Mortgage Agent, FSCO Lic. #12465

C A P I TA L

Unit 11, 201 Spinnaker Way, Concord, ON L4K 4C6 Tel: 905-532-9288 | Cell: 416-452-8245 www.zvikashluper.ca | zvika@ozcapital.ca

lead the charge to discredit this honorable man who merely wants to ensure that less brothers are dying on the streets, that more sisters graduate, more black men step up and be present for their children and most importantly that the systemic barriers that are contributing to the predicament of the black community are dismantled. Instead of celebrating the fact the Justice Mcleod did not forget his roots when he “arrived” and celebrating that he is still deeply connected to the community and can still be an impartial, compassionate and just judge, some try to defame him. Complaint dismissed, to the delight of many he was vindicated on December 20th.

December 21st ended with a spectacular event. PARANG. I would encourage anyone that has never experienced this to try something new Christmas 2019. On Friday evening I ushered in the holidays with a Parang lime at a friend’s house. For me Christmas was quiet; filled with church, and hanging out at home doing puzzles, building Lego, watching Sanford and Sons reruns and playing Risk, Trouble, Balderdash, Scrabble and Spot It. The laughter and sheer joy of watching my four children laughing and having fun together was priceless. So journey with me in 2019 as we strive to continue to make gains in the educational arena so the all children including African Canadians, Black and Caribbean children will be the best versions of themselves. Walk Good!

Belle Marché.

PAGE 36

life

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

To keep a statute or remove a statue BRITTNEY CHANNER brittney@carib101.com

JUSTICE WARRIOR

Happy New Year! First off, let me say welcome back to all the dedicated readers who kept up with all of the latest entries regarding my column. With that being said, I would also like to welcome, new readers, who are in search of information, insightful discussion or general knowledge about how they can educate themselves or partake in their own form of social justice.

Within the past year or so, we have seen different forms of social justice unfold in front of our very eyes. Whether it be through online spaces which have contributed to an increase in social activism or through public protests, which have been the result of a number of prevailing social justice matters; what we do know is that within the 21st century, many people are now speaking up against matters that do not promote equality, fairness, and positivity.

In addition, on top of speaking out against unjust issues that arise, there has been a recent trend of the removal of historical statues of persons or symbols that represent any form of racist/discriminatory past. It has also been argued that statues of this nature are deemed to be offensive as they are not in line with the current belief system of modern day society.

A great example of this can be seen in the United States, specifically Virginia, Baltimore, and St Louis wherein the wake of the Charleston church shooting in the month of June 2015, spawned for the removal of memorials on public property that commemorated the Confederate States of America. The recent uproar for the removal of these statues stems from the belief that they glorify white supremacy and memorialize a government whose main principle was the expansion and maintenance of slavery.

Those who are against the removal of these statutes stated that they were in place to honor the historical significance and the contribution that it adds to American history. However, detractors

of this argument state that these memorials were not built to honor but as a means of intimidating African Americans and endorsing white supremacy. On the other hand, those who do not agree with the removal of these memorials state that keeping them will educate the public on the ugly truth of America’s history and can essentially provide insightful discussion on how to avoid similar situations such as those of the past.

The debate surrounding this issue has brought forth quite a bit of controversy and has left a nation divided with sensitive racial tensions unexplored. A closer to home example of this issue occurred in Victoria, British Columbia last August as a number of people called for the removal of a John A. Macdonald statue within the city’s core. For those who are unaware, Mr. Macdonald was the first Prime Minister of Canada and under his leadership, Canada was extended from sea to sea giving the nation its geographical coherence.

However, what many Canadians fail to realize is that John A. Macdonald was the architect of the Indian Residential School System. The residential school system’s primary objective was to remove and isolate children of Indigenous decent from the influence of their traditions and family and assimilate them into dominant European culture.

Supporters of the removal of his statue in Victoria state that the image of him being allowed to stand in the heart of the city without being challenged, especially as it is directly outside of a government building, sends a disrespectful message to First Nation people and doesn’t align with Canada’s current multicultural society of inclusion and acceptance.

As the trend to remove more statutes across North America continue to arise, I do believe it is important to have valid discussions surrounding the criticisms of these statues. As shown in Victoria with the development of the Victoria Reconciliation Dialogues, which allow residents to provide feedback on the best way to recognize and acknowledge history through appropriate lenses; creating a safe and wider space for proper dialogue can help aid in preserving historical significance while ensuring proper and appropriate context of that history is maintained.

What are your thoughts? Should the city of Victoria remove the Statute of John A. Macdonald?

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

home & garden

PAGE 37

Kitchen cabinets that aren’t white For years, many kitchen renovations have focused on white cabinets. While popular, this choice can be uninspiring and often difficult to keep clean. Here are three ideas for your kitchen cabinets that will stand the test of time but have a bit more personality than white alone.

can’t get with white. No matter your style, there’s a grey that will work for your kitchen. Go for an almost-white tone for an unexpected twist or try a charcoal hue for a more dramatic, elegant look.

1. BLONDE WOOD Naturally pale wood combines the fresh, airy feel of white cabinets with the warm, homey feel of a cottage kitchen. Think light-coloured Nordic influences rather than the dark, lacquered stains from decades past.

3. TWO-TONE There’s no rule that says all cabinets have to be same.

Double down on the grey trend by painting the lowers charcoal and the uppers a pale grey to make your ceilings look higher. Or experiment with colour by pairing a bold-hued island with natural wood cabinets.

2. GREY Grey cabinets are great for kitchens because they’re neutral but add the kind of visual interest that you

Choosing one of these stylish options will add character to your kitchen in a way that white cabinets alone can’t.

The three types of lighting you should have in your home Most design experts agree that the key to good lighting is having multiple layers of light that complement each other and fulfill different roles in the space. In general, homes require three basic types of lighting: 1. Ambient lighting. A room’s main source of lighting, often provided by chandeliers, pendant lighting or ceiling-mount lights. This layer sets the overall tone of the room, but it should only be the starting point of your lighting design.

2. Task lighting. A type of lighting that illuminates areas where you need extra brightness for performing specific tasks, such as reading, cooking or working at a computer. For instance, you could install a hanging light fixture over the kitchen sink or install a lamp next to your preferred reading chair.

3. Accent lighting. Lighting used to highlight unique architectural features or certain objects, such as paintings, sculptures, decorative accessories or antique collectibles. Accent lighting should be concealed as much as possible since its purpose is to illuminate without being too obvious.

Using different types of lighting in each room allows you to change the intensity of the light according to how you’re using the space at the time and keeps you from relying on a single overhead light that may be too bright or create a lot of shadows.

Interior designer vs. interior decorator: what’s the difference?

You’ve probably heard the terms interior designer and interior decorator used interchangeably. However, they actually describe two different but similar professions.

Interior designers complete two- or four-year degree programs that involve studying subjects like colour theory, architecture, computer-aided design and spatial planning.

They work with architects and contractors to plan and renovate spaces and can be involved in every step of the remodelling process, from drawing up floor plans to adding the final touches.

Interior decorators focus on esthetics. They help transform spaces that are already built by making recommendations about paint colours, furniture styles, lighting and accessories. They’re not required to complete professional training (though many decorators do), and they usually work directly with businesses and homeowners.

SHOULD I HIRE A DESIGNER OR A DECORATOR? If you need help with designs during a renovation, it’s best to go with an interior designer. They’ll help you create a space that serves your specific needs and aligns with your particular tastes. However, if you’re mainly looking to update the appearance of a space, a decorator can help you achieve a whole new look by rearranging and redecorating.

In the end, what matters most is not the job title, but the skills of the designer or decorator in question. Choose a company or professional with a reputation for high-quality designs and expertise in the type of work you’re looking for.

How to organize your bedroom for better sleep If you have trouble winding down at night, your bedroom may be part of the problem. Here are four tips on how to organize your bedroom to achieve optimal sleep.

1. Invest in your bed. Don’t skimp when it comes to the quality of your mattress — your comfort directly affects the quality of your sleep. If your mattress is over seven years old, shows signs of wear or simply doesn’t feel comfortable, it’s time to invest in a new one. You should also select quality bedding; choose sheets with high thread counts made from materials like Egyptian cotton or satin.

2. Pay attention to lighting. Darkness is vital for allowing your body to go into sleep mode. Make sure your curtains and blinds adequately block out natural light (buy blackout curtains if necessary) and choose light bulbs with lower wattages.

3. Get rid of clutter. A cluttered bedroom can create anxiousness so it’s therefore best to keep your room well organized and accessories to a minimum. Don’t forget that your bed should be the focal point of the room.

4. Limit electronics. Electronic screens emit a blue light that can keep you awake. Avoid placing a TV in your bedroom and consider charging your phone in a closed drawer when trying to sleep.

One final tip: if you regularly struggle with sleep, think about getting an air purifier for your bedroom. Not only do they make it easier to breathe, but they also create white noise that blocks out disruptive sounds.

PAGE 38

automotive

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Choosing the truck that’s right for you Truck owners typically use their pickup for one of four things: hunting, hauling, small jobs or transporting family members. Here are the key elements to consider before purchasing a truck destined for one of these uses.

1. FOR HUNTING Hunting trips very often venture along logging roads or even offroad. Such excursions require a truck adapted for these conditions. To safely navigate this terrain, your vehicle needs to include certain features, such as a limited-slip differential, skid plates, high ground clearance and suitable tires. Here are a few models that meet these criteria:

• Chevrolet Silverado Z71 • Ram Rebel • Ford F-150 FX4 • Toyota Tundra TRD Pro • Nissan Titan Pro-4X 2. FOR HAULING On the question of which truck is the ultimate workhorse, don’t expect a consensus among truck drivers. This much, however, can be agreed upon: if you’re pulling a heavy load, you need a heavy duty diesel truck; and if it’s a reasonably-sized trailer or boat you’re towing, or a motorcycle or snowmobile, a smaller truck will do the job.

That said, no two trucks are made equal. Looking at the figures, here are a few that stand out for their towing capabilities:

• Ford F-150 3.5 EcoBoost: has the top towing capacity at 12,100 lbs and also has the most power and most torque.

• Ram Ecodiesel: has the best fuel efficiency and can tow up to 10,670 lbs.

• Chevrolet Silverado 6.2: can tow up to 11,460 pounds and is particularly enjoyable to drive.

Caution: heavy key chains can damage your ignition switch Do you carry all your keys on the same key chain?

If so, you would be wise to remove your car key from the bunch. The heavy weight of multiple keys will place a burden on the car key, and therefore the ignition switch, while driving.

As you accumulate miles behind the wheel, the weight of a bundle of keys, together with the effects from bumps and vibrations, can cause the lock housing to wear prematurely and eventually lead to your vehicle’s starter failing. In extreme cases, the ignition switch is tugged out and the motor shuts off.

To keep your ignition switch in good working order for many years, keep your car key on a light key chain that holds no more than one or two other keys. Heeding this advice could spare you a huge expense in the long run.

Electric cars: number of models available will soon hit 100 3. FOR SMALL JOBS Bigger isn’t always better. If you want a good all-round truck designed for smaller jobs, here are some models to consider:

• Honda Ridgeline: an excellent choice for people who want the best of two worlds: the practicality of a truck and the feel of an SUV. • Toyota Tacoma: this indestructible Toyota model continues to be a synonym for reliability and durability. Not the most comfortable truck, but it’s tireless and can easily venture into the thicket.

• Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Canyon: less for work, more for pleasure, these two GM trucks aren’t suitable for big jobs, but can manage smaller ones perfectly.

4. FOR FAMILIES The phrase “family vehicle” usually brings to mind vans and SUVs; however, trucks can certainly fall into this category too. Certain models can comfortably seat six people, all while providing a ton of space in the back. There are in fact a number of trucks designed specifically for families. Here are several examples:

• Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: these are the largest trucks of the bunch, with the most spacious interiors. They also offer the greatest number of family-oriented features, such as Wi-Fi Hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Ford F-150: some F-150 models are highly luxurious and include impressive SYNC voice-recognition technology and touch screens.

• Ram 1500: the only truck on this list with independent suspension and therefore the smoothest ride.

• Toyota Tundra: it isn’t the most spacious, and it’s far from being the most comfortable, but it’s the most dependable (no small thing).

After having combed the press releases from car manufacturers, the magazine Automotive News reported that by 2022, there will be close to 100 different electric car models on the road.

Several companies are leading the charge b u t m o s t notably Ford. The American carmaker plans to spend US$11 billion dollars on a slew of new products, starting with an electric car inspired by the Mustang, which is expected to come out in 2020.

The company hopes to have 40 hybrids and electric cars on the market by 2022.

General Motors and Nissan have ambitious plans too. GM aims to come out with more than 20 new electric cars by 2023,

while Nissan aims to come out with eight new electric cars in the same amount of time and to make the bulk of their Infinity line electric by 2021. Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW and Volkswagen also have projects in the works: expect to see new hybrid or electric models from these companies in the near future.

A number of smaller companies are also putting their hat in the ring. For instance, the American start-up Faraday Future will start manufacturing the “ultra-luxury” electric vehicle it unveiled this year. And another American company, Lucid Motors, is planning to launch a 1000-hp luxury sedan with a 400-mile range in 2020 (thanks to a one billion dollar investment from Saudi Arabia it received last year).

fun

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 39

WEEK OF JANUARY 6 TO JANUARY 12 2019

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: ARIES, TAURUS AND GEMINI

The party’s not over yet and there are still many reasons to celebrate. At work, a demanding client will overwhelm you.

TAURUS

Time is becoming a sparse commodity, but you can’t afford to neglect any of your responsibilities. Your boss may ask you to go into work even on your day off.

PUZZLE NO. 673

GEMINI

HOW TO PLAY :

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 673

There may be a last minute vacation in the works. Learning a new skill will excite you and you’ll start to think about going back to school.

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

CANCER

The beginning of a new year is always an emotional time for you. Personally and professionally, there are many new challenges on the horizon.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

LEO

Pay attention to your loved ones; it’s possible that your happy life will be disrupted by a misunderstanding. You may need to treat those you care about with kid gloves.

VIRGO

PUZZLE NO. 936 41. Confusion 44. Redeem 46. Hosiery color 48. Copied 52. Walking 53. Sweater material 54. Frozen rain 55. Took a position

DOWN

ACROSS

1. Stockpile 6. Laughing ____ 11. Spotted ponies 13. Make numb 14. Boundary 15. “The ____

Strikes Back” 16. Sing 18. Pull behind 19. Porky’s digs 22. Exhausting 24. Pizza spice 26. “Render therefore ____ Caesar . . .”

30. Pocket bread 31. Car fuel 33. Dancer’s jump 34. Earth 35. Language variety 37. Consented 40. Two, in Madrid

1. Mock 2. Blend 3. Army or carpenter 4. Brood 5. “Moonlight ____” 6. Macho types 7. Yelp 8. Modify copy 9. Famous fiddler 10. Afresh 12. Kite cord 13. Sandwich shop 17. Make wider 19. Soaks up 20. Duo plus one 21. Bigfoot’s kin

23. Shorebird 25. Grand party 27. Necessity 28. Mexican dish 29. Selects 32. Afternoon snooze 36. Decorates 38. Cary or Hugh 39. Used a bell 41. Venomous vipers

42. Double 43. Single time 45. “The Gift of the ____” 47. Bind 49. Food fish 50. Before, before 51. Family member

It’s time to clean up. The holidays are over and you now need to move on to more serious things. An unexpected departure may land you the job of your dreams.

LIBRA

This is the perfect time to start taking care of yourself. You’ll discover your passion in life, which will make you want to start working towards a new goal.

SCORPIO

Whether you’re on vacation or not, you’ll spend more time with your family this week. If you have an opening in your schedule, take advantage of it by redecorating or rearranging your furniture.

SAGITTARIUS

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 936

There’s either too much going on or not enough; there’s no happy medium. When you want time to yourself, there will be a crowd of people around you; when you’re alone, you’ll miss your friends.

CAPRICORN

You’ll take a few hours this week to return or exchange gifts at the mall. While you’re there, you’ll find some great deals and decide to treat yourself.

AQUARIUS

Take advantage of your time off this week and plan activities with family or friends. You won’t want to sit still this week, so even if you’re alone, you’ll take off on an adventure.

PISCES

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

You’ll be confused and easily distracted this week. The last few weeks have left you exhausted, so make sure you use your time off to relax.

WANT TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE? CALL US AT 647-722-6298 ORIGINAL AD

A+

Give Your Children an Edge!

MODIFIED AD

Give Your Children an Edge!

Specialized services are affordable; sessions are tailor made to suit your budget great or small.

Specialized services are affordable; sessions are tailor made to suit your budget great or small.

We offer One-on-One packages as well as Group Rates!

We offer One-on-One packages as well as Group Rates!

Whether you want to stay on track or soar ahead, let us create your success story!

Contact us at 416-551-2469 or find us online at hear-2-help.com

Community Development Services Proven Results • Qualified Tutors • Flexible Rates

A

Whether you want to stay on track or soar ahead, let us create your success story!

Contact us at 416-551-2469 or find us online at hear-2-help.com

Community Development Services Proven Results • Qualified Tutors • Flexible Rates

FOR SALE FOR SALE JAMAICA: 1 bedroom appt, Patrick City Jamaica Price is CAD $60,000 Call ,416454-7329 PROPERTY FOR SALE: Gorgeous modern 5 bedroom, 3 1/2 baths bungalow on 1/3 acre. Located Harrasglade Four Paths Clarendon. Mostly returning residence, can be a gated community. Price $24 million negotiable. Contact Michael 437 219 8119 JAMAICA: Land in Jamaica for sale at Southfield St. Elizabeth Near the ocean side. Call Roy 416.704.4096 LAND FOR SALE: 1/3 Acre of land in New Wales, Manchester, 5 minutes from Mandeville with utilities and good road CAD. $40,000. Call 647-884-8977

FOR RENT SALE FOR

FOR SALE WANTED

OFFICE: Newly renovated and Modern furnished office space for rent. 2 desks,Internet phone connection Receptionist If needed. bus stop in front. Call 416434-5710

RECORDS & LP’S: Wanted Old Jamaican Records LP’s or 45’s to added to my Jamaican Collectors Archives catalogue Call Les 905-999-6184

LIVE IN: Looking for a female to cook and clean, live in. Call 647-343-9480

LOOKING: Young guy, 50, looking for female 30-50 for a serious friendship, relationship or companionship. Call Andrew 905-939-7880

FORWANTED SALE HELP

CLEANERS WANTED: Need Subcontractor Cleaners Serious Callers,Must speak English, Midnight Shifts and Must Drive.

GTA locations. Text or Call 647-239-4808 ASSEMBLER: Coey Stairs is looking for a jr stair assembler. We will train you; you will be making treads, cleaning, installing and learning at the same time. Email debbie@coey.ca call 905.494.1099

FOR SALE WORSHIP

PERSONALS

SERVICES

MOVING & DELIVERIES: Williams Moving and Delivery Services | Van Moving $60/hr | Van Delivery $50 | 416-5709065

POST YOUR CLASSIFIED UP TO 30 WORDS FREE! Subject To Space Availability - Call 647-722-6298

SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211 MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137

Sheik Fazill Haniff Sales Representative

ROYAL SPACE

REALTY BROKERAGE

Bus: 416-748-7900 Fax: 416-352-5268 Cel: 416-892-7213 Email: shaniff@trebnet.com 100 Westmore Dr #12 B Etobicoke, Ont. M9V 5c3

PAGE 42

real estate

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Life lessons learned JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

My first place of residence was in an apartment building in Scarborough, Lyn Valley.

I was advised by my friends and relatives to buy the best furniture and appliances because when I would eventually buy my home, I could keep them. That was a mistake because back then, condos were selling for about $40,000. All I needed was 10% or $4,000. I chose instead to buy an expensive bedroom set for about the same cost. I took advice from the wrong person. I confided in the person who was closest to me but was not necessarily the right person. You should not go to the mechanic when your head hurts and similarly to the doctor when your

car breaks down.

When I bought my first home, I relied on a friend who introduced me to a realtor. He showed me one home in Malton and convinced me to buy it. The sellers were his friends and they eventually bought another home from him. The home I bought was roach infested and required work. I paid above market value. The realtor assisted me to arrange a mortgage through a mortgage broker. I paid huge brokerage fees and had a first and second mortgage.

I also have assisted many people financially and have received the wrong end of the stick. Both the money and friendships disappeared. I assisted a client who relocated to Mexico and had an outstanding loan. She asked if I could assist and she would repay in a few weeks. It’s been over 10 years now and I am still hoping. I have come to understand that if someone does not have money in the first place, how can they afford to repay you?

It’s best to give and forget than to lend and repent.

In the mid-’90s, a friend, top-notch accountant, advised me to have a mixed in-

vestment portfolio. I had a few rental prop- I assisted a couple that were having erties then and with his advice, I bought family disputes, to sell their home. I got the mutual funds. About seven years later, I sold offer signed by the husband and had to meet it at a loss and moved on. I learned to stick his wife in the mall. She was with her sisters with what I know best. Had I used the money and begged me not to let her husband know. to buy a few more rental properties, things Later her husband called and questioned could have been different. me. I did not mention that she was with her

In 1988, a potential buyer asked me sisters. The bad news is that he eventually to show him a home in Scarborough. He was found out and unleashed his anger against living in Mississauga. After visiting the home, me. Lesson learned is not to get caught in the he requested that I drop him off a few blocks crossfire because you are getting bullets from down the road by his daughter. On my way both sides. driving home I realized that he used me as an For investors, I rewarded good tenunpaid taxi cab driver. ants by not giving them a rental increase.

Today I work differently. I ask more Most of my rental properties are underperqualifying questions. I found that by asking forming. Now, I reward my tenants differently more questions, I can assess the client’s need but give them a rental increase as allowed by and assist them better. At the same time, I can the guidelines. throw out the bad apples.

I hope that these life lessons act as

I had a client who always introduced lighthouses in the dark and stormy seas of our himself as “Reverend”. It turned out that he lives. Osker Wilde, the famous poet and playwas a scam artist. On the other hand, my doc- wright, put it into perspective “Experience is tor would refer to himself by his first name simply the name we give our mistakes.” Let’s and not by his title. Today, anytime someone learn from experiences. introduces themselves to me by their title,12/21/17 I Ad-B&W-Indra+Justin2_Ad-B&W-Indra+Justin2 4:29 PM Page 1 interpret it as a warning signal.

Our spacious, elegant facilities offer families beautiful chapels, visitation suites and reception lounges with ample parking.

Indra Seelal-Crichton Funeral Counsellor 647-704-2820 indraseelal@gmail.com

Justin Carmichael Licensed Funeral Director 416-668-0818 justin.chapelridge@gmail.com

905-305-8508 www.chapelridgefh.com 8911 Woodbine Avenue, Markham • 737 Dundas Street East, Mississauga

Beautiful Facilities, Fair Prices and Unparalleled Service.

Keeping it REAL With Alyssa Mahadeo

EVERY FRIDAY 1-2PM EST

A show discussing community advocacy, finding solutions, overcoming obstacles and searching for trail blazers working towards positive change.

VIEW IT LIVE | SEARCH “MYTCNTV”

network

PAGE 44

finance

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Setting goals for 2019 FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

THE NUMBER ONE CARIBBEAN APP FOR GLOBAL EXPOSURE

FIND MUSIC, NEWS, LIVE CRICKET, JOBS, CARIBBEAN TV, EVENTS AND MORE!

FREE DOWNLOAD

So, 2018 is now behind us. For some, it’s a year we would rather forget and for some, it’s a year in history. But I always say that life is like a running river and we can step in the same place twice. In thinking of 2019, we would either be setting goals or making New Year’s resolutions. There are significant differences between the two. Regarding your resolutions, it means that you are resolving yourself to do something. Either a new habit that you plan to cultivate or an old one that you plan to stop, on the other hand, goal setting is quite different.

In respect to New Year’s resolutions, here are some common ones that I see every year. Go to the gym, lose weight, get fit, quit

smoking, improve myself, manage my debt, save money, and take a family vacation. These are all resolutions, thing that you resolve to do, but I encourage you to set goals in respect to the things that really matter to you, to be able to accomplish them.

So how is goal setting different then? Goal setting is specific. It requires details and follows the SMART acronym, which is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time sensitive. Let’s say that your resolution is to lose weight, if you were to transfer this to a goal, you would now have to say how much weight you plan to lose, whether its attainable, are you being realistic about the amount you plan to lose, how you are going to go about doing it, for example how many days are you going to exercise and which gym are you joining. When you have gone through this exercise you are more likely to achieve your goal than if it remains a resolution.

So now let’s look at some financial goals that you should focus on in 2019.

A simple method for increasing your wealth is to earn more, spend less, save and invest more. Well, it’s a simple method but not eas-

ily achievable by all. I would encourage you this year to increase your earning capacity by improving your skill at your job and by perhaps working a little harder. Spending less is something that we do have control over but the urge and ease with which we can spend is a trap, if you can’t control the credit card, cut it up or lock it away. I have three credit cards, but there is one in my pocket, I don’t wish to be tempted to make purchases easily. Do not buy things you don’t need, or eventually, you will have to sell things that you do need.

Save and invest more. What if you had saved 10% of all of your paychecks since you got your first, how much would have saved by now? What if you now add a compound interest of just 5%, can you imagine your savings? In 2019 decide that you will reduce your net income by 10% and save it first before you pay your bills, much different from what you do now; you pay bills and save what’s left over, not good! Where should you save this 10%? There are many financial instruments, perhaps a TFSA or RRSP, you have to ask a financial advisor to guide you.

Should you drop your life insurance policy?

ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

“Life insurance isn’t about protecting you, it’s about protecting those you love. If those you love don’t need protection, then some would argue you don’t need life insurance.” That’s how some people and advisors feel about it. Below is an example of when to know it’s time to walk away from your policy and the expense.

Life insurance is probably one of the least understood major expenses. Many people buy it when they don’t need it. Just as many need it and don’t buy it. This is an email I received last month...

“I am wondering if I should drop my whole life insurance policy, I feel that this has been a total waste of my money. I’ve had the policy for over 20 years. My children are grown up and have families of their own, my house is paid off, and I have a decent amount of money in the bank.

But I pay monthly for life insurance. I feel that when the time comes, my children or siblings can use my savings for any expenses. I hope this is enough information. Please tell me, what do you think?” Thank you, Ann-Marie

A major component of life insurance is if those you leave behind will suffer financially from your death. This is typical when you have kids, debt, and a one-income household – that’s when losing a breadwinner can be tragic. When you’ve paid off the house, the kids are gone, the savings account is topped off, and your death is just a reason for your family and friends to get together and celebrate your life, then the need for life insurance is not so critical.

Anne-Marie told us two things suggesting it may be ok to drop her policy: Kids are all grown up - Parents often consider dropping or reducing their coverage once the kids are out of the house and on to their own careers and lives. Anne-Marie’s death may be sad for those she leaves behind, but it won’t be financially catastrophic. This is the primary reason for life insurance, and she doesn’t need it for that purpose.

Her house is paid off - When you die and leave your mortgaged house to a loved one like a spouse. They can just assume the mortgage, but with children, the transfer of the house will cause taxable consequences for them. In either case, however, the mortgage might not be affordable. So, life insurance can come in handy by paying off the mortgage. Since Anne-Marie’s is paid off, once again life insurance isn’t needed for that purpose.

Was it really a waste of money?

In Ann-Marie’s case, it may not have been a total waste of money. That’s because she has a whole life policy, as opposed to a term policy. I’ve talked about the differences, the benefits and disadvantages of the two before.

When you buy a term policy, you have to die to get money from the insurance company.

But whole life combines a death benefit with a savings account.

A couple of options she has available to her would be; she could just surrender the policy and take her money just like closing a bank account. She should be aware of taxes though. The interest she earned on the savings portion of her policy was tax-deferred, meaning she didn’t pay income taxes on it. When she takes it out, she’ll have to pay taxes. An option that bypasses taxes would be to borrow against the savings with a policy loan. Another option would be for Ann-Marie to stop making premium payments in two different ways. The first way is for the insurance company to use her accumulated savings to continue funding her premiums until they’re used up. The second is called reduced paid-up insurance, meaning she can stop the coverage amount at the amount she has fully paid for and drop the rest.

If the premiums are unmanageable, she could ask the beneficiary to help make them. Then she could continue paying the policy and transfer the death benefit tax-free.

The main point here is to educate yourself on all your options by speaking with experienced professionals.

Lunch Special - Monday to Friday 11am to 3pm Curry Chicken (Roti or Rice) Curry Goat (Roti or Rice) Curry Beef (Roti or Rice) Veggie (Roti or Rice) Jerk Chicken Roti

5

99

.50

Add A Beverage Add A Doubles

1

50

100% Halal

905-492-Roti (7684)

1550 Kingston Rd, Pickering, ON L1V 1C3

therotispot01

CANADA’S URBAN MUSIC SUPERSTATION

OLD SCHOOL HIP HOP & R&B YOU’RE NUMBER ONE SOURCE FOR OLD SCHOOL HIP HOP, R&B, REGGAE, SOCA AND MORE!

Carib101.com

PAGE 46

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Umpire apologizes for his mistakes…

West Indies is getting a new head coach and a preview of England Tour of West Indies KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER After a controversial call against the West Indies, umpire, Tanvir Ahmed apologized for his mistakes. It was a couple of no-ball calls that some may say changed the pace of the third T20I between Bangladesh and the West Indies earlier in December.

This call caused an 8-minute break in the match due to West Indies captain Carlos Brathwaite protesting against the decision.

Brathwaite was clearly unhappy with the decision where he continued to converse with the fourth umpire, Sharfuddoula and match referee,

Jeff Crowe, however, Brathwaite was told that the no-ball was not able to be reviewed.

Ahmed stated that he has a good track record as an umpire and that the call was a mistake on his part.

“If you look at my past, I don’t have a bad history. It was one mistake. Every person has good days and bad days. Yesterday I had a bad day. The match just ended yesterday. I am not focusing on anything else. I am thinking about my mistake.”

Tanvir Ahmed officiated all of the matches in the T20I series.

West Indies won the match followed by a postgame press conference where Brathwaite reacted very strongly saying he already had a word with the other umpires about the previous decisions after the second T20I on Thursday.

Richard Pybus to become West Indies new head coach After concluding the final T20 series for 2018, the West Indies have named current highperformance director, Richard Pybus, as the

full-time head coach. Replacing Nic Pothas, Pybus’ contract will run until the 2019 Test Series against India following the ODI World Cup in England.

Nic Pothsas, the original fielding coach was named as the interim head coach for the recent tour of Bangladesh shortly after Stuart Law departed.

Richard Pybus started in the newly created role, High Performance Director in February 2018. Prior to taking on this position with the West Indies, he left his previous role of director of cricket in 2016. Earlier in his coaching career, Pybus coached Pakistan taking them to finals of the 1999 World Cup as well as working with a number of domestic teams around the world. His last stint with an international team came when Pybus worked with Bangladesh as their head coach for only five months as there was a disagreement over the terms of his contract in 2012.

The High Performance Director contract was initially a two-year contract allowing him to work alongside selectors and coaches across multiple levels in cricket in the Caribbe-

an. Pybus had previously served as the West Indies’ director of cricket from 2013 to the end of 2016 where he chose not to renew his contract.

Although three years were spent with the West Indies, Pybus was not welcomed by everyone in the organization. Darren Sammy, who was the captain of the West Indies at the time Pybus was in office, made clear on Twitter that he was unimpressed with the decision.

“Lies, lies, lies... Must be fake news,” Sammy tweeted, and a day later, in response to a reply: “Well I’m still hoping that nightmare is not true #fakenews he’s not coming back at CWI.

The West Indies has been without a permanent head coach since Stuart Law resigned in September 2018. Forty-nine-year-old Stuart Law stayed for less than two years on the job. He left West Indies and signed a four-year contract with the English county team, Middlesex.

Law helped improve the West Indies’ standings in Tests in addition to securing a spot in the 2019 World Cup.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

A T A D F O 4 GB FOR ONLY

.

O M / $40

NO OVERAGE CHARGES , NO TERM CONTRACTS , NO CREDIT CHECKS NO OVERAGE CHARGES , NO TERM CONTRACTS , NO CREDIT CHECKS

ZONE N I S E G R A H C E G NO OVERA

CHATRMOBILE.COM CHATRMOBILE.COM

Etobicoke 2456 Lakeshore Blvd West 416-259-3654

VISIT OUR LOCATIONS TODAY! VISIT OUR LOCATIONS TODAY!

Dufferin Mall 900 Dufferin St. Toronto 416-530-0005

Parkway Mall VISIT OUR LOCATION TODAY! 85 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough 416-999-9229

379 Main St. North, Brampton 379 Main St. North, Brampton Brampton Dufferin & Eglinton 2456 West, Etobicoke 379 Main StreetLake Northshore Blvd 1818 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto 905-451-0379 416-787-8890 2456 Lake shore Blvd West, Etobicoke

CHATRMOBILE.COM Brimley & Lawrence 2887 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough (647)713-1113

Peanut Plaza 3030 DonMills Rd, NorthYork 647-719-1999

Taxes extra. Offer subject to change without notice. Get up to 1GB of data on the Talk, Text and Data Plan. Once you reach your 3G speed data allotment, your data speed will be reduced until your next anniversary date. ™ Trademarks used under license ©2018 Taxes extra. Offer subject to change without notice. Get up to 1GB of data on the Talk, Text and Data Plan. Once you reach your 3G speed data allotment, your data speed will be Get up to 2GB’s of bonus data on the Data, Talk and Text Plans (in-zone) available for a limited time, subject to change without notice. Once you reach your 3G speed data allotment, your data speed will be reduced until reduced until your next anniversary date. ™anniversary Trademarks used under license ©2018 your next date. Only applicable to new activations.

Taxes extra. ™ Trademarks used under license ©2018

SAMSUNG GALAXY S9 & SAMSUNG GALAXY S9 & .

100GB BIG BINGE BONUS 100GB BIG BINGE BONUS .

ONLY AT FREEDOM. ONLY AT FREEDOM.

$ $15..

GET A SAMSUNG GALAXY S9 GET A SAMSUNG GALAXY/MO S9†

FOR FOR ONL Y ONLY

/MO†

ON SELECT BIG GIG PLANS. SAVE $599.

ON SELECT BIG GIG PLANS. SAVE $599.

freedommobile.ca freedommobile.ca Brampton Rexall Plaza 10015 Hurontario Street, Unit 2 Brampton ON L6Z 0E6 905-840-9464

Freedom Mobile 10635 Bramalea Road, Unit J6 Brampton ON L6R 0C1 905-458-9464

Walkers Line 3505 Upper Middle Road Burlington ON L7M 4C6 289-427-5260

Boardwalk 235 The Boardwalk Kitchener, ON N2N 0B1

Shoppers World Brampton 499 Main Street South Brampton ON L6Y 1N7 905-453-9463

Freedom Mobile 10671 Chinguacousy Road, Unit B17 Brampton ON L7A 3E9 905-840-3388

Kitchener Laurentian Hills Plaza 720 Westmount Road East, Unit 8 Kitchener ON N2E 1J2 519-5784646

Mississauga Sheridan Centre 2225 Erin Mills Parkway Mississauga ON L5K 1T9 905-822-9463

Freedom Mobile 83 Kennedy Road South, Unit 16 Brampton ON L6W 3E7 905-460-9463

Burlington Appleby Village 5111 New Street Burlington ON L7L 1V2 905-635-0584

Stanley Park Mall 1005 Ottawa Street North Kitchener ON N2A 1H2 519-954-2923

Westwood Mall 7205 Goreway Drive Mississauga ON L4T 2T9 905-671-9463

Freedom Mobile 1100 Burnhamthorpe Road West, Unit 16 Mississauga ON L5C 4S5 905-615-8788

Scarborough Bridlewood Mall 2900 Warden Avenue Scarborough ON M1W 2S8 416-490-9463

Toronto Woodside Square 1571 Sandhurst Circle Toronto ON M1V 1V2 647-260-1392

Oakville Oakville Smart Centre 261 Oak Walk Drive, Unit J2 Oakville ON L6H 6M3 289-291-3261

Parkway Mall 85 Ellesmere Road Scarborough ON M1R 4B8 416-444-9463

Centerpoint Mall 6464 Yonge Street Toronto ON M2M 3X7 416-222-9463

St Catharines Waterloo Oshawa St Catharines Smart Centre Shops at Waterloo Five Points Mall 420 Vansickle Road, Unit K3 75 King Street South 1177 Ritson Road North, St Catharines ON L2S 0A4 Waterloo ON N2J 1P2 Unit F4-10 289-479-5496 519-880-9463 Learn more at freedommobile.ca. The 100GB Big Binge Bonus offer and Samsung Galaxy S9 offer are available for a limited time and is subject to change or cancellation notice. *To get the 100GB Big Binge Bonus, you must activate a new service or upgrade your Oshawa without ON L1G 8B9 phone on an “Eligible Plan” (rate plan with a recurring charge of $60 per month or higher) with MyTab on a 24 month services agreement during the promotion 905-576-4440 period. Bonus 100GB of data will only be used after you have used up all the fast LTE data in your rate plan

each month and, once the total 100GB of bonus data is depleted, it will not be replenished. The bonus data will remain available on your account for as long as you remain an active customer in good standing on an Eligible Plan. If you downgrade your rate plan or cancel LearnMyTab, more atany freedommobile.ca.

Binge Bonus offeraccount. and Samsung S9 offer areofavailable for a limited time and is subject to change or cancellation without notice. *To get the Big Binge you musta activate a new upgrade †To save $599 and get the Samsung Galaxy S9 100GB for $0 upfront youBonus, must activate new service or service upgradeoryour phoneyour on your remaining bonusThe data100GB will beBig removed from your MyTabGalaxy Additional Terms Service apply – see freedommobile.ca/MyTab. on in-market an “Eligible (rate plan with recurring charge $60 perBoost monthpayment or higher) MyTab services on a 24 month services agreement during promotion period.

Bonus 100GB of that dataiswill be used youBonus have discount, used up all in your rate for plana aphone current $60Plan” and up plan with thea $15/month MyTabofmonthly on with a 24-month agreement.

If you downgrade fromthe your plan within 24 months to a plan notonly eligible for aafter MyTab or the to afast planLTE thatdata is only eligible each month once the total 100GBthen of bonus databeischarged depleted, it will nottobeall, replenished. will remain available on your account for as are longsubject as youtoremain an active customer goodPolicy, standing on anTraffi Eligible Plan. If you downgrade your rate planlocated or cancel lower MyTaband, Bonus discount amount, you will a fee equal or proratedThe part,bonus of thedata discount received.

All Freedom Mobile services our Terms of Service, Fair in Usage Internet c Management Policy, and Privacy Policy at †To save $599 and get the Samsung Galaxy S9 for $0 upfront you must activate a new service or upgrade your phone on your MyTab, any remaining bonus data will©be2018 removed fromElectronics your account.

MyTab of Service apply see freedommobile.ca/MyTab. freedommobile.ca.

Applicable taxes extra.

Samsung Canada Inc.Additional All rights Terms reserved.

Samsung and–Samsung Galaxy are registered trademarks or trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., used with permission. Screen image simulated. The Freedom aMobile currentname in-market $60 and up plan with the $15/month MyTab monthly Boost payment on a 24-month services agreement.

If you downgrade from your plan within 24 months to a plan that is not eligible for a MyTab Bonus discount, or to a plan that is only eligible for a and logos and other words, titles, phrases, marks, logos, icons, graphics are trademarks of, or are used under license by, Freedom Mobile Inc. lower MyTab Bonus discount amount, then you will be charged a fee equal to all, or prorated part, of the discount received. All Freedom Mobile services are subject to our Terms of Service, Fair Usage Policy, Internet Traffic Management Policy, and Privacy Policy located at freedommobile.ca. Applicable taxes extra. © 2018 Samsung Electronics Canada Inc. All rights reserved. Samsung and Samsung Galaxy are registered trademarks or trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., used with permission. Screen image simulated. The Freedom Mobile name and logos and other words, titles, phrases, marks, logos, icons, graphics are trademarks of, or are used under license by, Freedom Mobile Inc.